Conflict of Interest policy

Written September 2018 by Adil Abrar, Company Director

Last updated 1st January 2023 by Adil Abrar, Company Director

Next update 1st January 2025

This conflict of interest policy is a document that outlines how the company and its employees should handle situations where their personal or professional interests may conflict with their duties and responsibilities to the company, its clients, or its partners. The policy aims to ensure that the company operates with integrity, transparency, and fairness, and that its reputation and quality of service are not compromised by any actual or perceived conflicts of interest.

The policy applies to all employees, contractors, consultants, and volunteers who work for or represent the company in any capacity. The policy also covers any individuals or entities that have a business relationship with the company, such as suppliers, subcontractors, partners, or affiliates.

The policy defines a conflict of interest as any situation where an individual or entity has a direct or indirect interest that may influence or appear to influence their decisions or actions in relation to the company's activities. This includes, but is not limited to:

- Having a financial stake or benefit in a competitor, client, supplier, or partner of the company

- Having a family or personal relationship with a competitor, client, supplier, or partner of the company

- Having a secondary employment or business activity that may interfere with the company's interests or obligations

- Having access to confidential or proprietary information that may be used for personal gain or advantage

- Having a political or social affiliation that may affect the company's reputation or objectives

The policy requires all employees and other relevant individuals to disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest as soon as they become aware of them. The disclosure should be made in writing to the appropriate manager or supervisor, who will review the situation and determine whether a conflict of interest exists and how it should be resolved. The resolution may involve:

- Removing or limiting the individual's involvement in the activity that causes the conflict

- Seeking approval from the company's senior management or board of directors

- Modifying the terms or conditions of the activity that causes the conflict

- Terminating the activity that causes the conflict

- Disclosing the conflict to relevant parties, such as clients, suppliers, or partners

The policy also provides guidance on how to avoid conflicts of interest in general, such as:

- Acting in the best interests of the company and its clients at all times

- Maintaining professional boundaries and objectivity in all interactions with competitors, clients, suppliers, and partners

- Refraining from accepting or offering gifts, favors, hospitality, or entertainment that may influence or appear to influence business decisions

- Complying with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards

- Reporting any suspected breaches of the policy to the appropriate authority

The policy states that failure to comply with its provisions may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract. The policy also reserves the right of the company to take legal action against any individual or entity that causes harm or damage to the company as a result of a conflict of interest.