The conscience of an organization:the ethics office

Today’s businesses consist of diverse employees, many of whom are in a state of cognitive moral confusion. Some have trouble distinguishing right from wrong. Others question whether such standards even exist. Many businesses need a constant presence that reminds everyone to do the right thing. The name of that ethical conscience is the “ethics office.” Some companies have moved beyond compliance to an integrity‐based approach to ethics management, building a culture that embraces core values and an uncompromising implementation of legal and ethical principles. These guiding principles are embodied in the strategic planning process and evidenced in the daily decision making and actions of the firm. In integrity‐based companies, the ethics office truly serves as the organizational conscience, gently reminding management and employees alike to remember their ethical compass.