Procurement Policy: Supply Chain Code of Ethics

Purpose

The purpose of the University of Ontario Institute of Technology Supply Chain Code of Ethics is to define acceptable behaviours and standards that should be common for everyone involved with supply chain activities, such as planning, purchasing, contracting, logistics and payment.  The code is not meant to supersede other University value statements or policies but rather to supplement them with supply chain-specific standards of practice.

Supply Chain Code of Ethics

Personal Integrity and Professionalism

All individuals involved with purchasing or other supply chain-related activities must act, and be seen to act, with integrity and professionalism. Honesty, care and due diligence must be integral to all supply chain activities within the University organization, suppliers and other stakeholders.  Respect must be demonstrated for each other and for the environment.  Confidential information must be safeguarded. All participants must not engage in any activity that may create, or appear to create, a conflict of interest, such as accepting gifts or favours, providing preferential treatment, or publicly endorsing suppliers or products.

Accountability and Transparency

Supply chain activities must be open and accountable. In particular, contracting and purchasing activities must be fair, transparent and conducted with a view to obtaining the best value for the University money.  All participants must ensure that public sector resources are used in a responsible, efficient and effective manner.

Compliance and Continuous Improvement

All individuals involved in purchasing or other supply chain-related activities must comply with this code of ethics and the laws of Canada and Ontario. All individuals should continuously work to improve supply chain policies and procedures, to improve their supply chain knowledge and skill levels, and to share leading practices.

Roles and Responsibilities

The Vice-President, Administration, is responsible for ensuring that the Supply Chain Code of Ethics policy is fully implemented.

Any edits to the Supply Chain Code of Ethics shall be documented and must be approved by the Vice-President Administration  and Manager of Procurement.