1. Introduction and Mission

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to establish a framework of principles and guidelines that ensure corporate treasury professionals adhere to the highest standards of professional behavior. It fosters a unified voice among treasury professionals, promoting shared values with internal and external stakeholders while encouraging excellence in practice. This Code aims to:

  • Assist in identifying and preventing conflicts of interest and unacceptable conduct.
  • Provide guidance for newcomers to acclimate to the treasury profession.
  • Establish benchmarks for self-evaluation among members.

While reflecting universally accepted corporate values, the Code highlights specific qualities intrinsic to the treasury profession, ensuring alignment with corporate ethics, local laws, and practices.

2. Principles and Shared Values

Honesty, Integrity, Trust, and Probity

Members are committed to truthfulness, transparency, and accountability. They:

  • Disclose relevant information without misrepresentation.
  • Use resources responsibly and safeguard assets.
  • Demonstrate loyalty to their organization and professional associations.
  • Challenge actions that may harm internal or external stakeholders.

Fostering an environment of trust and respect, members value diverse perspectives, accept constructive criticism, and uphold integrity and fairness in business conduct.

Independent Judgment

Members exercise sound professional judgment, ensuring decisions are free from personal bias or conflicts of interest. They:

  • Provide objective advice on financial and technical matters.
  • Encourage a culture of consultation and informed decision-making.

Competency

Members are expected to maintain and demonstrate high standards of technical and professional expertise by:

  • Pursuing ongoing training and qualifications.
  • Avoiding claims of competencies they do not possess.
  • Setting an example for peers through continued professional growth.

Confidentiality

Members handle sensitive information with discretion, adhering to legal and corporate disclosure requirements. They:

  • Refrain from using confidential information for personal gain.
  • Safeguard sensitive data encountered in professional or association-related contexts.

Regulatory Compliance

Members comply with applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards, including:

  • Financial market regulations, corporate governance, and tax laws.
  • Anti-discrimination laws, respecting diversity and equal treatment irrespective of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, or other protected attributes.

Coaching

Senior members mentor newcomers by sharing expertise, reinforcing shared values, and providing guidance on technical and behavioral aspects of treasury work.

3. Acting with Professional and Personal Integrity

Members maintain professionalism and respect in interactions with colleagues and third parties. They:

  • Reject and report any form of bribery or inducement.
  • Avoid actions that harm others’ reputation, property, or employment.
  • Use their membership ethically, refraining from overtly commercializing their association with ATEB.

4. Commitment to Continuous Learning

Members are responsible for:

  • Keeping their knowledge and skills current with industry and regulatory developments.
  • Sharing best practices to enhance the profession’s collective expertise.

5. Gifts, Services, and Hospitality

Treasury professionals must navigate ethical dilemmas regarding gifts and hospitality with integrity. Members:

  • Decline offers that could influence or appear to influence their judgment or loyalty.
  • Avoid impairing their independence or integrity in dealings on behalf of their employer.
  • Disclose and seek employer approval for any personal business involving parties who have or seek a business relationship with their employer.

6. Scope of Application

This Code applies to all ATEB members, who are expected to:

  • Uphold the profession’s reputation and refrain from actions that bring disrepute.
  • Foster professional and collegial relationships with fellow members.

7. Addressing Breaches

Any breaches of this Code should be reported to an ATEB Board member. Reports can also be made by individuals outside of ATEB. The Board will address violations appropriately to uphold the integrity of the profession.