Our global Code of Conduct lays out the standards and behaviours that we expect of all employees, including our Board of Directors.
It guides us in acting responsibly and ethically in what we do and outlines the ways in which anyone can seek help and guidance.
The Code includes examples of situations employees may face in their day-to-day work and advice on where they can find information and support if they’re unsure about what to do.
Joint ventures controlled by BAE Systems are required to uphold standards that are substantially equivalent to this Code. Joint ventures not controlled by BAE Systems are encouraged to adopt standards that are substantially equivalent to this Code.
We encourage our business partners, contractors and suppliers to adopt the same or equivalent standards of ethical business conduct as set out in our Supplier Code of Conduct .
Our Code is supported by a training and engagement programme to empower people to make ethical decisions. Ethics training gives employees a shared understanding of what is expected of them and helps create an environment in which all employees feel they can ask questions and be supported in making the right decisions.
Our conversation-based training is delivered annually to employees by line managers. Ethical scenarios, which are presented using cards or videos, are discussed in a team environment to promote rich and open discussion about what the implications of decisions are for individuals, the Company and our customers.
Training scenarios cover ethical issues that have arisen across the Company and also cover current and emerging risks and issues, both internal and external to the Company. Training is refreshed, incorporating employee feedback, material risks (including Internal Audit findings, legal and ethics investigation findings and disciplinary information) and best practice, and is delivered annually.
Depending on an employee’s role within the Company, they may be required to undertake additional training. For example, enhanced training modules have been introduced including for senior executives and business leaders covering Export Controls, Integrity in Business Dealings and Advisers.
Governance and Disclosure