IoD public consultation on a Code of Conduct for Directors

This Code of Conduct is a practical tool to help directors make better decisions. It also provides organisational leaders with a behavioural framework that can help them build and maintain the trust of the wider public in their business activities.

The Code represents a voluntary commitment and is not intended to hold back directors or create a new burden of compliance. It is structured around six key ‘Principles of Director Conduct’:

• Leading by Example – demonstrating exemplary standards of behaviour in personal conduct and decision-making.
• Integrity – acting with honesty, adhering to strong ethical values, and doing the right thing.
• Transparency – communicating, acting and making decisions openly, honestly and clearly.
• Accountability – taking personal responsibility for actions and their consequences.
• Fairness – treating people equitably, without discrimination or bias.
• Responsible Business – integrating ethical and sustainable practices into business decisions, taking into account societal and environmental impacts.

The Code of Conduct was developed for the IoD by a Commission chaired by Lord McNicol of West Kilbride, and was published with the support of BDO.

We are seeking views on the Code of Conduct from the business community and the general public. We invite you to submit your written comments here by Friday 16 August 2024. You may also submit feedback to the following email address: [email protected].