Promoting integrity standards

Our commitment to high ethical standards demonstrates how we conduct business. In addition to setting standards, however, it is necessary to cultivate a culture of integrity by ensuring that ethical considerations are reflected in business objectives, that good conduct is rewarded and that senior management leads by example.

 

Leadership

Novartis dedicates particular effort to nurturing ethical leadership. It is our firm belief that a culture of integrity can only be achieved when senior management sets the right tone, leads by example and cultivates a speak-up culture which encourages associates to address ethical aspects in the workplace and when they make decisions.

Our leadership training programs are meant to help managers to balance ethical, economic and legal considerations in order to make responsible business decisions.

In 2008, Corporate Integrity and Compliance and the Corporate Learning Department incorporated specific training modules on integrity into the Novartis Leadership Development Program, underscoring that integrity considerations are parts of normal business situations.

 

Objectives and incentives

Adherence to our values forms an explicit part of the annual performance appraisal of all associates. Values and behaviors, including integrity, are evaluated during appraisals. The 'integrity track record' of associates in positions of substantial authority prior to recruitment and promotion is screened.

 

Training and guidance

An important way to maintain a culture of ethical business practice and improve compliance, is through training and communication, supported by an infrastructure which provides guidance and advice. All Novartis employees are required to undertake e-training on integrity and compliance. Courses are mandatory, including for Executive Committee members.

E-learning courses exist in up to 14 languages, covering topics from Code of Conduct, Corporate Citizenship, Human Rights, Anti-Bribery, Privacy and Data Protection and Records Management to Insider Trading and compliance with Sales and Marketing Codes. Training is offered in a range of formats, including e-learning and face-to-face programs and workshops.

A total of 174 511 courses were completed globally in 2008, representing 130 883 hours of training. As of 2008, 94% of all associates had been trained on the Code of Conduct and 88% on Corporate Citizenship through the e-learning program. New associates at Novartis receive training on the Code of Conduct shortly after joining the company. During 2008, 84% of associates worldwide completed this training.

We maintain a training record for each associate.

A completely revamped Integrity & Compliance Intranet site was launched during the year. The site provides information on the Integrity & Compliance program, available e-trainings, frequently asked questions and features examples of misconduct. A specific Intranet site for promotional practices, meanwhile, supports the country organizations by providing training material, self-assessments and other tools relating specifically to ethical issues in sales and marketing.

 

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