How We Work – Code of Conduct
Winrock International’s Code of Conduct is a collection of guiding principles that extend and amplify the Winrock mission. The Code dictates guiding principles for workplace conduct and provides resources to help Winrock employees make informed decisions and act on those decisions with integrity.
The Code covers everything from gender equality to personal data protection and has sections on Winrock’s commitments to staff, beneficiaries, donors and partners. The Code explains how to spot an ethical dilemma and how to report one if you do.
The Code webpage is designed for easy use with tabs for downloading the Code, reporting a concern, asking a question, or following up on an existing question. There is also a tab that provides access to the Winrock hotline, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for reporting issues when other channels of communication aren’t available or reporters wish to remain anonymous.
“I am committed to maintaining a culture where people are encouraged to seek advice, voice concerns or report possible misconduct — and are protected from retaliation when they do so,” said Winrock President and CEO Rodney Ferguson, in an email to staff launching the Code.
To help Winrock employees feel comfortable and have multiple channels to discuss their concerns, a Code of Conduct ambassador was selected from each project, location or team. Ambassadors serve as local resources, in addition to the hotline and Compliance office. They explain what’s in the Code and channels for speaking up about it.
The Code was developed by the Human Resources department in conjunction with Chief Risk and Compliance Officer Charlotte Young.
“This Code needs to work for you, our valued employees,” says Ferguson. “If you have questions, concerns or suggestions for a better Code, please contact the Code of Conduct ambassador for your office location or our Risk and Compliance Office.”