Ethics & Integrity
Our values define who we are as an organization and are a key differentiator for IPG. These values are centered around respect for every individual and appreciation for universal principles of human rights. Our policies, trainings and programs are designed to prevent corruption and other unethical behaviors, as well as to address any incidents that could arise. IPG strives to adhere to our long-standing commitment to sound and equitable business ethics and to continue to foster a culture of integrity.
Oversight of Ethics & Integrity
The Board’s Audit Committee has oversight responsibility of our compliance program. IPG also maintains cross-functional management committees to oversee compliance, including an Anti-Bribery Compliance Committee and an Executive Risk Committee.
Our Board of Directors, CEO and management team oversee a robust compliance program applicable to 100% of our operations.
Policies Supporting Ethical Behavior
To ensure that our global operations are carried out with integrity and respect for all stakeholders, all IPG companies around the world are expected to adhere to our corporate policies.
Recent developments to our ESG-specific policies include the adoption of our Responsible Media & Content Principles, Global Contributions Strategy & Policy, and updates to our Environmental Sustainability Policy and Supplier Code of Conduct.
Our Code of Conduct is one of the ways that we ensure that all our people conduct themselves in ways that are wholly consistent with [our] values, treating one another fairly and with respect, as well as acting with integrity in all interactions, whether internal, with clients, or with suppliers.
- IPG CEO Philippe Krakowsky
IPG Policies
IPG’s Code of Conduct forms the foundation of how we interact with one another, with our suppliers and with our clients. The Code of Conduct is available in 15 languages for our global workforce. It provides guidance on performing our jobs ethically and ensures compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in the countries where we operate.
Our Corporate Governance Guidelines explicitly state that IPG’s Board of Directors and executive officers must comply with the Code of Conduct, and that the Board may not waive any provision of the Code of Conduct for any director or executive officer. Additional corporate governance policies and resources can be found on our website.
Several of IPG’s standard policies and procedures are informed by our ESG principles and priorities and ensure that we are accountable to all of our stakeholders — investors, clients, employees, consumers, suppliers and communities – around the world. The following policies can be found on our website:
- Environmental Sustainability Policy
- Sustainable Business Travel Policies
- Anti-Harassment & Equal Employment Policy
- Human Rights Policy
- Responsible Media & Content Principles
- Contribution Strategy & Policy
- Policy on Board Diversity
- Anti-Corruption Policy
- Tax Policy
IPG is committed to operating our business with the highest standards of integrity and with sustainable practices, and we endeavor to work with suppliers and partners who share our values. To ensure suppliers adhere to our standards, we have adopted a Supplier Code of Conduct and accompanying guidance for IPG employees as they manage suppliers. The Code reflects the principles contained in the IPG Code of Conduct, including our expectation that suppliers share our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
For business partners that present an elevated risk level, we include detailed provisions relating to anti-corruption in the relevant contracts.
Ethics Training & Compliance Audits
IPG recognizes the value of ethics training for ensuring a workplace that operates ethically and protects human rights for every individual. All employees worldwide are advised of and are required to take an annual training course on the IPG Code of Conduct, which includes training on topics like anti-corruption. All new hires also receive this mandatory Code of Conduct training upon onboarding. Employees must also annually certify their agreement with the Code and disclose any potential conflicts.
of our operations are assessed for risks related to corruption.
Raising Concerns
Shared Values and Standards
IPG seeks to engage employees, suppliers, consultants, freelancers and other business partners who share our values and human rights standards. IPG will not tolerate violations of our ethical standards.
Toll-Free Alertline
In accordance with IPG policy and local laws, reports can be made by contacting our toll-free Alertline, a third-party-operated hotline available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in more than 40 languages. Individuals may also report violations through an Alertline website.
Alternative Outlets
In addition to the Alertline, IPG provides employees with several other means to express concerns about their work environments and seek advice about ethical and lawful behavior. IPG employees may report concerns to their direct managers, local and corporate human resources departments or the legal department.