Robust governance and business ethics.
The Group has a strong governance culture in place, as detailed below, that underpins our governance ambition and helps to protect our trusted brands.
Priority 1:
Living our purpose and values
We hold a distinct purpose that our employees comprehend and embrace. Our Code of Conduct is applicable to all employees, outlining our dedication to: (1) conduct ourselves ethically; (2) adhere to pertinent laws and regulations; and (3) consistently choose the right course of action. Our Code of Conduct further affirms our commitment to respecting and upholding globally acknowledged human rights principles, as articulated in the International Labour Organisation’s Organization’s Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (‘ILO Convention’) and the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As we enter 2024, we will persist in enhancing the effective communication of our Code of Conduct and values, acknowledging employees who actively engage with and embody our purpose and values.
Priority 2:
Good business ethics
Exemplary business ethics are evidenced through the implementation of comprehensive policies and procedures within the Group, coupled with our diligent efforts to monitor employee awareness and adherence to these guidelines. Key policies that reinforce our Code of Conduct include our Anti-Slavery and Human Trafficking Policy, distinct versions for both suppliers and employees, our Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy, our Competition Law Policy and our Whistleblowing Policy.
In 2023, we conducted a thorough review of all Group Policies to ensure their continued relevance and applicability. This initiative aimed to guarantee that employees have a clear understanding of how these policies are to be implemented while working within the Group.
Priority 3:
Sustainable governance
We have incepted good sustainable governance practices in the business, as described in our Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures; further details can be found in the Annual Report. With an increased emphasis on the Group's Sustainability Framework, we are actively working towards fostering a cultural transformation throughout the organisation. Our goal is to ensure that sustainability becomes more integrated into our overall operations and behaviours.
Corporate governance
The Company follows the UK Corporate Governance Code (Code). In accordance with the Code, the following information is made available:
| Title | Document |
|---|---|
| Matters reserved for the Board | View |
| Articles of Association | View |
| Terms of reference for the Audit Committee | View |
| Terms of reference for the Nomination Committee | View |
| Terms of reference for the Remuneration Committee | View |
| Terms of reference for the Risk and Sustainability Committee | View |
| Memorandum of Association | View |
| Title | Document |
|---|---|
| Matters reserved for the Board | View |
| Articles of Association | View |
| Terms of reference for the Audit Committee | View |
| Terms of reference for the Nomination Committee | View |
| Terms of reference for the Remuneration Committee | View |
| Terms of reference for the Risk and Sustainability Committee | View |
| Memorandum of Association | View |
Other corporate governance documents: