Code of Conduct
An organization expects its Board members to meet the highest ethical and professional standards in their actions, their use of authority and their dealing with others. By outlining what those standards are in a Code of Conduct document and asking Board members to sign that they have read it, the Board is making Board members accountable and avoiding potential problems.
Board members are expected to represent the best interests of the membership and stakeholders. They are expected to be knowledgeable of the organization's mandate, policy and operating requirements and the processes that the Board follows.
Elements of a Code of Conduct
A Code of Conduct usually includes points about:
- Conflict of interest
- Use of authority
- Representing the organization
- Treatment of fellow Board members and staff
The sample Codes of Conduct (see below) show how these elements can be addressed in a brief manner or in more detail. It is recommended that a Code of Conduct document be provided to each Board member by the organization for review and signing/acknowledgement. If the Code of Conduct is not followed, the Board member involved must be dealt with. Depending on the situation, this may range from a written reprimand to removal from the Board.
Sample Policy (Toolkit 1)
Sample #1 Code of Conduct Agreement for Board Members (Toolkit 1)
Sample #2 Code of Conduct Agreement for Board Members (Toolkit 1)
Resources - Websites and Documents
HR Policies and Procedures - Code of Conduct - by the HR Council for the Voluntary/Non-profit Sector
