1. Introduction
Leaderbeing is committed to promoting ethical leadership and positive transformation. Our core values—kindness, curiosity, and disruption for good—are central to everything we do. This Code outlines the standards of ethical behaviour that all those affiliated with Leaderbeing are expected to follow, including employees, network associates, project-based associates, contractors, and clients.By adhering to this Code, we create an environment built on trust, respect, and mutual accountability, allowing us to achieve impactful and sustainable success. Everyone associated with Leaderbeing shares the responsibility of upholding these values and behaviours in all business interactions and decisions.This code should be read in conjunction with the Leaderbeing Associate Handbook, which applies in full to all associates, employees, contractors, and stakeholders, providing comprehensive guidance on expected behaviours, responsibilities, and company standards
2. Purpose & Scope
This Code applies to:
- Employees: All full-time and part-time staff.
- Associates: Both network-based and project-based associates who deliver services under the Leaderbeing brand.
- Clients: Organisations and individuals who engage Leaderbeing for leadership development services.
- Contractors and Partners: Third parties performing services or providing resources for or on behalf of Leaderbeing.
This Code serves as a guide for ethical behaviour and compliance with legal obligations. All stakeholders are expected to familiarise themselves with its provisions and integrate them into their work practices.
3. Core Values and Ethical Principles
Leaderbeing’s values form the foundation of our ethical expectations:
- Kindness: We act with empathy and respect, fostering environments where all voices are heard.
- Curiosity: We embrace learning and challenge existing perspectives to find creative and inclusive solutions.
- Disruption for Good: We question the status quo to drive positive change in leadership and organisational behaviour.
All stakeholders must embody these values in their conduct.
4. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
Leaderbeing operates in compliance with the laws of the regions in which we do business, including but not limited to:
- The UK Bribery Act
- The Modern Slavery Act 2015
- The Data Protection Act 2018 (GDPR)
All associates, employees, clients, and contractors are required to comply with these laws. If there is any uncertainty regarding legal obligations, stakeholders should seek guidance from the appropriate Leaderbeing representatives (e.g., People Team, Compliance Officer, or General Counsel).
5. Respectful Workplace and Engagement Conduct
Leaderbeing is committed to maintaining an inclusive, harassment-free workplace and business environment.
- For Employees and Associates: Discrimination, harassment, and workplace violence are strictly prohibited. All associates are expected to foster a safe and respectful work environment.
- For Clients and Contractors: Leaderbeing expects respectful and professional conduct from clients and external partners. Behaviour that undermines psychological safety, such as harassment or discrimination, may result in contract termination.
Examples of prohibited behaviours include:
- Verbal or physical harassment
- Discriminatory language or conduct
- Bullying or intimidation tactics
Stakeholders should report any such behaviours through designated reporting channels.
6. Conflicts of Interest
A conflict of interest arises when personal interests interfere with the ability to act in Leaderbeing’s best interests.
- Employees and Associates: Must disclose any potential conflicts, such as outside business activities, personal relationships with clients, or financial investments that could affect decision-making.
- Clients: Are expected to avoid placing Leaderbeing associates in compromising situations by offering inappropriate gifts, favours, or other inducements.
Leaderbeing reserves the right to reassess and adjust business relationships to mitigate conflicts of interest.
7. Confidentiality and Data Protection
Leaderbeing is committed to protecting sensitive information in compliance with GDPR and other applicable data protection laws.
- Employees and Associates: Must safeguard client and company information, ensuring it is accessed only by authorised individuals and used solely for legitimate business purposes.
- Clients: Must respect the confidentiality of information shared by Leaderbeing and refrain from disclosing it without consent.
All data breaches or risks must be reported immediately to the Data Protection Officer.
8. Fair Dealing and Anti-Bribery
Leaderbeing prohibits any form of corruption, bribery, or unethical influence in business dealings.
- Employees and Associates: May not offer or accept bribes, excessive gifts, or inducements that could compromise professional integrity.
- Clients and Contractors: Are expected to adhere to anti-bribery laws and refrain from practices that could create legal or ethical risks for Leaderbeing.
Violations may result in immediate termination of business relationships and legal consequences.
9. Use of IT Resources and Cybersecurity
Leaderbeing provides IT resources to support efficient and secure operations.
- Employees and Associates: Must use IT systems responsibly, follow cybersecurity protocols, and report incidents such as data breaches or unauthorised access.
- Clients and Contractors: Are required to respect data-sharing agreements, ensuring that they do not compromise Leaderbeing’s IT infrastructure.
Misuse of IT resources is grounds for disciplinary action or contract termination.
10. Whistleblowing and Reporting Violations
Leaderbeing encourages open communication and the reporting of unethical conduct.
- Employees and Associates: Can report concerns to their manager, the People Team, or anonymously through a whistleblowing hotline. Leaderbeing guarantees protection from retaliation for those who report in good faith.
- Clients and Contractors: Should also report any concerns related to their interactions with Leaderbeing. We commit to investigating all reports confidentially and professionally.
11. Collaborative Responsibilities for Clients
Leaderbeing’s clients are critical partners in creating ethical and productive relationships. We expect clients to:
- Respect our associates and employees by fostering a collaborative and respectful environment.
- Comply with all relevant laws, including anti-bribery, anti-slavery, and data protection regulations.
- Act with transparency and integrity in all engagements with Leaderbeing.
12. Environmental and Social Responsibility
Leaderbeing is dedicated to promoting sustainability and ethical business practices.
- Employees and Associates: Are encouraged to minimise environmental impact and promote inclusion and diversity.
- Clients and Contractors: Should align with Leaderbeing’s sustainability objectives and human rights commitments.
13. Training and Awareness
Leaderbeing provides regular training to ensure that all stakeholders understand their ethical obligations. Participation in training sessions is mandatory for employees and optional for associates, and contractors.
14. Breach of Code and Consequences
Failure to comply with this Code may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment, contracts, or business relationships. Serious breaches may be reported to legal authorities where required.
15. Policy Review and Updates
Leaderbeing will review this Code annually to ensure it reflects current legal and business needs. Updates may be issued as necessary to maintain the integrity of our ethical framework.
