We have a series of internal policies, controls and guidelines. These support our formal system of governance and decision-making. We have a Code of Conduct (new window), which applies to all KPMG member firms. All employees are required to abide by the Code’s provisions. The Code sets out commitments in areas ranging from compliance and maintaining quality to fair competition and independence. The Code also details employees’ responsibilities – the conduct and behavior we expect of the people working for KPMG. Employees are required to undergo training on the Code. The KPMG International Hotline (new window) meanwhile allows employees and outside parties to report suspected violations in confidence.
Alongside the Code, we have separate policies covering areas such as risk management, remuneration and data privacy. We also have a Global Supplier Code of Conduct (new window), a Business & Human Rights Statement (new window) and Corporate Tax Policy, committing KPMG to maintaining a constructive and open relationship with tax authorities, to pay its fair share of tax and not to use artificial structures that bear no relationship to our business. We also publish an annual Modern Slavery Statement (new window).[1] These policies and controls are supported by mandatory training – to ensure partners and employees are fully aware of their responsibilities. Many of our policies are based on international commitments, including the UN Global Compact (new window) and the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights (new window). KPMG is also a signatory to the World Economic Forum’s Partnering Against Corruption – Principles for Countering Bribery (new window). See our ISQM 1 statement for the effectiveness (new window) of our internal policies and controls during 2022/2023. We engage with our people on these policies through newsletters, webcasts and various means of communication on our intranet.
- 1 In line with the UK’s Modern Slavery Act