United Way Ghana: Conflict of Interest Policy
Governing Council Members and staff have an obligation to conduct business within guidelines that prohibit actual or potential conflicts of interest. These guidelines provide general direction so that Governing Council Members can seek further clarification on issues related to the subject of acceptable standards of operation.
An actual or potential conflict of interest occurs when a Governing Council Member or staff is in a position to influence a decision that may result in a personal gain for himself or for a relative as a result of the organization’s business dealing. For these purposes a relative is any person who is related by blood or marriage or whose relationship with the UWG Governing Council or Staff Member is similar to that of persons who are related by blood or marriage.
No “presumption of guilt” is created by the mere existence of a relationship with outside firms. However, if Governing Council or Staff Members have any influence on transactions involving purchases, contracts, or leases, it is imperative that they disclose to an officer of the Organization as soon as possible the existence of any actual or potential conflict of interest so that safeguards can be established to protect all parties.
Personal gain may result not only in cases where an employee or relative has a significant ownership in a firm with which the Organization does business but also when a Governing Council or Staff Member or relative received any kickback, bribe, substantial gift or special consideration as a result of any transaction of business dealings involving the United Way Ghana.
Conflict of interest may also include the protection of confidential Organization information. Such information includes, but is not limited to directories, lists, labels, personnel and fringe benefit information.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY
- Gifts/gratuities – Governing Council or Staff Members are not to accept gifts, gratuities, free trips personal property or any other item of value from any outside person or organization as an inducement to do business or provide services.
- Outside business/professional interests – We recognize that Governing Council or Staff Members have outside business or professional interests. Governing Council or Staff Members, however, may not make a profit in any way in their outside employment or business interest from the association with this nonprofit. During board meetings, members must disclose any conflict of interest involving an issue before the board and abstain from discussion or voting on this issue.
- Personal beliefs – We recognize that Governing Council or Staff Members may hold a wide range of personal beliefs, values and commitments. These beliefs, values and commitments are a conflict of interest if they prevent Governing Council or Staff Members from carrying out their job responsibilities, if Governing Council or Staff Members attempt to use these nonprofit’s time and facilities for furthering them, or if Governing Council or Staff Members attempt to convince other members, the administrator or staff of their personal beliefs after these individuals have asked them to stop.
- Abuse of the board relationship – We believe that board members should not abuse their Governing Council membership by using this nonprofit’s staff, services, equipment, materials or property for their personal gain.