1. Introduction
Corporate membership of the IAM represents a commitment to excellence in administrative and business management. This Code of Conduct outlines the standards expected of all corporate member organisations, regardless of size, sector, or membership tier.
By adhering to these principles, corporate members demonstrate their dedication to professional development, ethical practices, and the advancement of the administrative management profession.
2. Core Principles
Professional Development
Invest in the professional development of administrative and business support staff. Provide opportunities for training, qualifications, and career progression.
Ethical Business Practices
Conduct business with integrity and transparency. Maintain ethical standards in all dealings with employees, clients, suppliers, and stakeholders.
Recognition of Professionals
Value and recognise the contribution of administrative and business management professionals. Support their professional status and career aspirations.
Equality and Inclusion
Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Create an environment where all employees can thrive regardless of background.
Quality Standards
Maintain high standards of quality in administrative operations. Implement best practices and continuously seek improvement in processes and services.
Partnership with IAM
Actively engage with the IAM to promote professional standards. Support the Institute's mission and contribute to the profession's advancement.
3. Standards for Corporate Members
1. Employee Development and Support
Corporate members shall:
- Provide access to professional development opportunities for administrative staff
- Support employees in obtaining IAM qualifications and memberships
- Allocate time and resources for continuing professional development
- Recognise and reward professional achievements and qualifications
- Create clear career pathways for administrative professionals
- Conduct regular performance reviews and development discussions
- Maintain appropriate staffing levels to enable quality service delivery
2. Workplace Environment
Corporate members shall:
- Provide a safe, healthy, and supportive working environment
- Ensure compliance with all health and safety legislation
- Promote work-life balance and employee wellbeing
- Implement policies to prevent harassment, bullying, and discrimination
- Provide appropriate tools, technology, and resources for effective work
- Foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and open communication
- Support flexible working arrangements where practicable
3. Ethical Business Conduct
Corporate members shall:
- Conduct all business dealings with honesty and integrity
- Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards
- Implement robust anti-bribery and anti-corruption policies
- Ensure fair treatment of suppliers, contractors, and business partners
- Maintain transparent financial practices and accurate record-keeping
- Protect confidential information and intellectual property
- Report and address any unethical behaviour promptly
4. Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Corporate members shall:
- Implement effective equality and diversity policies
- Ensure fair recruitment, selection, and promotion practices
- Provide equal pay for work of equal value
- Make reasonable adjustments for employees with disabilities
- Celebrate diversity and promote inclusive practices
- Monitor and report on diversity metrics
- Provide training on equality, diversity, and unconscious bias
5. Quality and Continuous Improvement
Corporate members shall:
- Establish and maintain quality management systems
- Set clear performance standards and metrics
- Regularly review and improve administrative processes
- Implement feedback mechanisms for continuous improvement
- Benchmark against industry best practices
- Invest in technology and innovation to enhance efficiency
- Share best practices with the wider IAM community
6. Environmental and Social Responsibility
Corporate members shall:
- Minimise environmental impact through sustainable practices
- Implement policies to reduce waste, energy use, and carbon footprint
- Consider environmental factors in procurement decisions
- Support community engagement and charitable initiatives
- Encourage employee volunteering and social responsibility
- Report transparently on environmental and social performance
- Align with relevant sustainability frameworks and standards
7. Obligations to the IAM
Corporate members shall:
- Uphold and promote the reputation of the IAM
- Use IAM corporate member status accurately and appropriately
- Pay membership fees and other charges promptly
- Participate in IAM surveys, research, and feedback requests
- Designate a primary contact for IAM communications
- Cooperate with IAM audits and reviews when requested
- Notify the IAM of significant changes to the organisation
- Encourage employee membership of the IAM
4. Membership Tier Commitments
Foundation Partner
- Adhere to all Core Principles and Standards
- Display IAM corporate member status appropriately
- Promote IAM membership to employees
- Participate in annual feedback survey
Development Partner
- All Foundation Partner commitments, plus:
- Support minimum 5 staff IAM memberships annually
- Implement formal CPD programme for administrative staff
- Share case studies or best practices with IAM
- Participate in IAM networking events
Strategic Partner
- All Development Partner commitments, plus:
- Support minimum 10 staff IAM memberships annually
- Provide opportunities for IAM qualifications
- Contribute to IAM thought leadership initiatives
- Participate in IAM advisory groups or panels
- Host or sponsor IAM events
5. Compliance & Review
The IAM monitors compliance with this Code through regular engagement with corporate members and may conduct periodic reviews.
Annual Review
Corporate members are asked to complete an annual self-assessment confirming their adherence to this Code. This forms part of the membership renewal process.
Non-Compliance
Where concerns are raised about a corporate member's compliance with this Code, the IAM will investigate and work with the organisation to address any issues. Persistent or serious non-compliance may result in:
- Requirement for a formal action plan
- Downgrade of membership tier
- Suspension of membership benefits
- Termination of corporate membership
6. Commitment Declaration
By maintaining corporate membership of the Institute of Administrative Management, our organisation commits to:
- Uphold the Core Principles and Standards set out in this Code of Conduct
- Invest in the professional development of our administrative and business support staff
- Create a workplace environment that supports professional excellence
- Conduct business with integrity, transparency, and ethical standards
- Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion throughout our organisation
- Support the IAM's mission to advance the administrative management profession