How to spot corruption in the workplace
Corruption in the workplace is at its highest rate in 50 years. Read some real life case studies of recent corruption cases to find out more.
That’s Corruption.
That’s Corruption.
RECOGNISE IT.
Real Life Scenarios
money
ACCEPTING BRIBES IN BUSINESS?
The crime:
In a disheartening turn of events, a housing project manager succumbed to the allure of bribery, tarnishing the integrity of contracts awarded by the Council. The manager illicitly received £125,000 from a contractor who had secured a £2 million contract for council-owned property works. This resulted in an estimated loss of £720,000 for the council, while the manager personally profited approximately £400,000. The manager’s misconduct extended beyond financial gain, as they were also enticed with premier football tickets, indulgent meals, and exclusive golf trips. Furthermore, the manager engaged in deceitful practices by paying firms for unnecessary or incomplete inspection work.
The discovery:
Fortunately, a vigilant colleague brought the manager’s misdeeds to light by reporting them to the council’s internal audit department. This courageous act initiated the process of uncovering the truth and holding the manager accountable for their actions.
The outcome:
Facing the consequences of their illicit actions, the housing project manager confessed to five counts of conspiracy to commit misconduct in public office, one count of committing misconduct in public office, and one charge of fraud by abuse of position. Consequently, the manager was sentenced to three and a half years in prison. Additionally, three other individuals involved received suspended jail terms, highlighting the shared responsibility for upholding ethical conduct.
The conclusion:
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining trust, integrity, and
transparency in business practices. The revelations surrounding the housing project manager’s acceptance of bribes and fraudulent behaviour underline the significance of ethical standards and the crucial role of vigilant individuals in exposing misconduct. Through accountability and swift action, we can strive towards a business landscape built on fairness, honesty, and the collective pursuit of integrity.
Socialising
Socialising to secure a business deal
The crime:
In a troubling account, an electrical engineer engaged in unethical practices by favouring a specific electrical contractor in exchange for personal benefits. This favouritism involved attending hospitality events, socialising with the contractor, and even receiving private electrical work at his personal property. As a result, the engineer manipulated tender specifications to ensure the contractor won several school rewiring projects.
The discovery:
The misconduct was brought to light when an individual, who had initially co-founded the electrical company involved, grew disillusioned with the unethical practices. The individual chose to sever their shareholding in the company and came forward to the council, revealing the allegations.
The outcome:
While this case was not escalated to law enforcement authorities, the electrical engineer faced consequences through a disciplinary process. The engineer was dismissed based on the following findings:
- Attendance at hospitality events alongside the contractor.
- Establishing a close friendship with the contractor and evidence of frequent socialising.
- Receiving private work performed and paid for by the contractor.
The conclusion:
Although legal actions were not pursued, this case underscores the importance of maintaining professional integrity and transparency in business relationships. The engineer’s behaviour compromised fairness and impartiality in tendering processes, ultimately leading to their dismissal. By upholding ethical standards and fostering a culture of accountability, we can cultivate a business environment built on trust and integrity.
Favours
Conducting business in an ‘I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine’ way
The crime:
In a concerning incident, a male Senior Lecturer found himself engaged in a compromising situation with a female student after a lecture. As they walked away from the campus, the student, who had just attended the lecturer’s session, invited him into her house for coffee. During their conversation, she tactfully raised the topic of her assignment assessment for the module he taught. Expressing the importance of a favourable grade, she subtly suggested that it would be beneficial for him to ensure she received a good mark.
The consequence:
This incident raises concerns about the potential for a bribery attempt. The student’s remarks, implying ‘you scratch my back if I scratch yours’ arrangement, suggest an inappropriate use of influence to secure a favourable outcome. In such situations, it is crucial for Dr. B, the Senior Lecturer, to handle the situation ethically and professionally.
Recommended Action:
Dr. B should firmly and politely decline to engage in further discussion with the student. He should explain to her that it is not appropriate to entertain such requests and promptly excuse himself from the situation. Additionally, it is essential for Dr. B to report the incident to a senior manager in the College, ensuring the details are conveyed as soon as possible.
Conclusion:
This case highlights the importance of maintaining ethical boundaries and integrity within academic environments. Dr. B’s immediate response in rejecting the student’s proposition and reporting the incident demonstrates a commitment to upholding professional standards. By addressing these situations promptly and appropriately, we can foster an educational environment built on fairness, equality, and academic integrity.
Friendship
AWARDING TENDERS TO YOUR FRIENDS FOR REWARD?
The crime:
In a case involving the rebuilding of an adventure playground after fire damage, an officer assigned to the project exploited the situation by circumventing proper procurement procedures. Despite the significant value of the work involved, the officer took advantage of it being classified as an ‘insurance job’ to forgo the required tender process. Instead, the officer awarded the contract to a personal friend who had recently started a business. Additionally, the officer provided assistance to their friend in various aspects of the new venture.
The rebuild contract held a value of £66,000. However, the officer’s actions not only bypassed established protocols but also raised concerns about favouritism and potential conflicts of interest.
The outcome:
Following an internal disciplinary process, the officer was dismissed from their position. Despite the opportunity to appeal the decision, the officer failed to attend the hearing, resulting in the confirmation of their dismissal.
The conclusion:
This case underlines the importance of adhering to transparent procurement processes and
maintaining professional ethics. By disregarding established procedures and engaging in nepotistic
practices, the officer compromised fairness and integrity. The decisive action taken serves as a reminder of the consequences that arise when individuals abuse their positions of authority. Upholding ethical standards in all aspects of business is crucial for ensuring trust, fairness, and accountability.
Report it
HOW TO REPORT CORRUPTION IN THE WORKPLACE
Crimestoppers
Help Tarian tackle corruption in the workplace by reporting it to the Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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