Anti-Bribery Policy
The Importance of Upholding Integrity
Bribery and corruption compromise fair competition, inflate costs, and damage trust with clients, partners, and prospective employees. Upholding ethical practices is fundamental to Smart Staff Connect’s mission to connect emerging talent with employment opportunities. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward bribery, ensuring compliance with global anti-bribery laws. Violations of these principles not only attract severe legal penalties, such as fines and imprisonment, but also risk tarnishing our reputation.
Policy Objectives and Goals
This policy outlines:
- Our commitment to ensuring full compliance with anti-bribery laws.
- The principles and procedures Smart Staff Connect implements to prevent bribery and corruption.
- The expectations for all employees and third parties associated with our operations.
Policy Scope and Applicability
This policy applies universally to Smart Staff Connect employees, contractors, and agency staff. It also extends to consultants and suppliers operating on our behalf. Furthermore, businesses with minority stakes by Smart Staff Connect are encouraged to adopt measures consistent with this policy.
Non-compliance may lead to disciplinary action, contract termination, and potential legal consequences for individuals or organisations.
Defining Bribery and Its Implications
Bribery encompasses offering, receiving, or soliciting anything of value to unduly influence decisions or gain an unfair advantage. Examples include:
- Cash payments or equivalents.
- Favourable employment offers.
- Sponsorships or charitable donations.
- Travel, meals, or gifts that exceed reasonable limits.
Engaging in or facilitating bribery undermines Smart Staff Connect’s core values of transparency and fairness.
Role and Responsibility of Third Parties and Associates
Third parties, including contractors, suppliers, and consultants, play a critical role in our operations. These associated persons are considered an extension of Smart Staff Connect and must adhere to the same anti-bribery standards. Due diligence is essential when onboarding third parties to ensure they align with our ethical guidelines. Any breaches committed by these entities may hold Smart Staff Connect accountable under relevant laws.
Prohibition of Bribery Involving Public Officials
Bribing public officials is strictly prohibited under this policy and international laws. Public officials include, but are not limited to:
- Government officers and employees.
- Individuals holding public office.
- Representatives of state-run organisations.
All dealings with public officials must be transparent and avoid any semblance of undue influence or impropriety.
Elimination of Facilitation Payments
Facilitation payments, defined as unofficial payments made to expedite routine actions, are not tolerated under this policy. Examples include payments for speeding up permit issuance or approval processes. Exceptions are permitted only for legitimate services, such as premium processing fees that are openly available to all.
Guidelines on Gifts, Hospitality, and Entertainment
Reasonable and occasional exchanges of gifts or entertainment can foster strong business relationships. However, strict boundaries must be maintained to ensure such activities:
- Are modest and infrequent.
- Do not influence or create a perception of undue influence.
- Adhere to Smart Staff Connect’s policies and approval processes.
Specific care must be taken when interacting with public officials or their families.
Supplier Contributions to Smart Staff Connect Events and Initiatives
Suppliers may voluntarily support Smart Staff Connect’s events or charitable initiatives within the following guidelines:
- Sponsorship must be freely given without coercion or expectation of business advantage.
- Event costs are primarily borne by Smart Staff Connect.
- Contributions must align with the ethical principles outlined in this policy.
Guidelines for Political and Charitable Contributions
Smart Staff Connect remains apolitical and refrains from supporting political entities. Charitable donations are made to enhance community well-being and must not:
- Serve as a quid pro quo for business advantages.
- Be directed toward organisations affiliated with public officials unless thoroughly vetted.
Encouraging and Supporting the Reporting of Concerns
Smart Staff Connect fosters a safe environment for employees and partners to report potential breaches of this policy. Methods for reporting include:
- Speaking with a line manager or the HR department.
- Contacting the Legal team or Internal Audit.
We strictly prohibit retaliation against individuals who report concerns in good faith.
Supporting Documentation and Policies
This policy complements other key documents, including:
- Code of Business Conduct.
- Conflicts of Interest Policy.
- Gifts, Benefits & Hospitality Policy.
- Whistleblowing Policy.
Annual Compliance and Reporting Requirements
All business employees are required to:
- Review and implement this policy annually.
- Communicate its contents effectively to all relevant parties.
- Monitor compliance and report any breaches or updates.
Key Contacts for Queries and Support
For guidance or questions related to this policy, please reach out to Smart Staff Connect at info@smartstaffconnect.com.
This policy affirms Smart Staff Connect’s unwavering commitment to ethical practices while connecting talent and opportunities.
