Business Code of Conduct
Introduction
This Code of Conduct reflects the core values that the First Intuition upholds in its daily operations and interactions. It should be read in conjunction with our staff handbook, anti-bribery, and whistleblowing policies.
It serves as a guideline for all team members, partners, and stakeholders to ensure we conduct our business with the highest levels of integrity, respect, and responsibility.
Our values reflect our strong belief in being a business who makes a positive impact on those who come into contact with us, and on the environment in which we operate.
The Guiding Principles
Our code of conduct relies on the 5 key principles below.
1. Building Trust and Credibility
Trust and credibility are the foundation of our business. We build trust by being honest, ethical, and transparent in all our dealings. Our credibility is strengthened when we act consistently with our values, fulfil our commitments, and treat our colleagues, customers, and partners with respect. Each team member is responsible for upholding this trust and contributing to First Intuition’s reputation.
2. Respect for the Individual
We are committed to creating an environment where every individual, including team members and learners are treated with dignity and respect. We value the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our team members and partners. Discrimination, harassment, or any form of disrespect is not tolerated. We encourage a culture of inclusion where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.
3. Open and Honest Communication
Effective communication is vital to our success. We foster a culture where open, honest, and respectful communication is encouraged. Everyone should feel comfortable sharing ideas, raising concerns, and asking questions without fear of retribution. Transparency in communication helps us address challenges, solve problems, and achieve our goals more effectively.
4. Responsible Leadership
Leadership at all levels of First Intuition is expected to model the highest standards of ethical behaviour. All employees are expected to demonstrate FI values in their actions and decisions, fostering an environment where ethical behaviour is recognised and rewarded. This commitment to integrity is a responsibility shared by everyone in First Intuition.
5. Commitment to Uphold the Law and meet regulatory requirements
We are committed to full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. This includes, but is not limited to:
• Health and Safety: We prioritise the health and safety of our team members, learners, and the communities in which we operate.
• Competition Laws: We compete fairly and honestly, avoiding practices that unlawfully restrain trade or unfairly disadvantage competitors.
• Confidential and Proprietary Information: We protect confidential and proprietary information, ensuring it is used only for legitimate business purposes.
• Selective Disclosure: We provide accurate and timely information to stakeholders, avoiding selective disclosure that could mislead or advantage certain parties unfairly.
• Professional code of conduct: We have adopted the professional code of conduct for the accountancy profession as it applies to the majority of our students and to all professional accountants. https://www.ifac.org/who-we-are/code-conduct
How we will achieve this:
1. Avoiding Conflicts of Interest
Team members must avoid situations where personal interests conflict, or appear to conflict, with the interests of First Intuition. Conflicts of interest can arise in various scenarios, such as outside employment, personal investments, or relationships that could influence decision-making.
Team members are expected to disclose any potential conflicts to their manager or the appropriate department to ensure they are managed effectively in accordance with the staff handbook and the FI Conflict of Interest Policy. Senior management in each centre will maintain a register of conflicts and resolutions applied.
2. Gifts, Gratuities, and Business Courtesies
We maintain strict policies regarding gifts, gratuities, and business courtesies to avoid any appearance of impropriety. Team members should not accept or offer gifts, favours, or entertainment that could influence or appear to influence business decisions. As a rule of thumb when any gift which, on its own or when combined with other gifts from or two the same party exceeds £50 is proposed the FI Team member should seek the approval of their line manager in line with the staff handbook. Local senior management teams will maintain a log of gifts received in excess of £50.
This section should be read in conjunction with FI’s anti money laundering and Bribery policies.
3. Setting Metrics and Reporting Results Accurately
We are committed to setting clear, measurable goals and reporting our performance accurately. Transparency in our metrics and results is essential to maintaining the trust of our stakeholders. We do not engage in practices that manipulate or distort results. Accuracy and honesty in reporting are non-negotiable standards across first Intuition.
4. Loyalty to First Intuition
Team members are expected to act in the best interests of First Intuition at all times. This includes protecting First Intuition resources, safeguarding proprietary information, and avoiding actions that could harm First Intuition’s reputation or financial well-being. Loyalty to First Intuition also means supporting its goals and values in all professional activities.
5. Doing the Right Thing
The right course of action is not always clear and team members should always consult with an appropriate manager or board member where there is any uncertainty. Together, they should consider the following questions:
• Is this action consistent with our values and code of conduct?
• Would I feel comfortable explaining this action to my colleagues, family, or the public?
• Could this action harm First Intuition, its team members, or stakeholders in any way?
• Is this action legal, ethical, and in line with First Intuition policies?
If the answer to any of these questions is “no,” or if there is any doubt, team members should seek further guidance from a manager, or the board before proceeding. If any doubt remains the team member should avoid the action.
6. Conclusion
This Code of Conduct is a living document, reflecting our ongoing commitment to ethical business practices. By adhering to these principles, we ensure that we continue to build an organisation that is respected, trusted, and successful. Each team member has a role to play in upholding these standards, and together, we will achieve our shared vision for the future.