Sharon
Corporate Ethics Manager
How long have you worked at AWE?
I started at AWE in July 2007, so I’ve been here for 15 years.
Tell us about your time here?
For the first 11 years I worked in HR and then became the Ethics Manager. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time on site and have enjoyed both functions I’ve been in. I continue to think AWE is a great company to work for. I am aware of issues through my roles but, from my time in other companies, I recognise that what AWE offers is very good. And it would be remiss of me not to mention the people – not just the people I work with on a daily basis, but pretty much everyone I come into contact with. People are professional, polite, knowledgeable, helpful and friendly, in my experience.
Why did you choose AWE?
I suppose AWE chose me as I was approached about a role here. At the time it felt like a good fit with the work I had been doing, but with an opportunity to further my career and fully use my skills, qualifications and experience.
How did you end up with a career in ethics?
When the opportunity arose to apply for the role of Ethics Manager within AWE, I felt there were some synergies with my HR role and experience, but I recognised some differences too. The big difference within my ethics role is that I focus on company concerns and matters which would affect the whole company, although these are raised by individuals who have an interest in the outcome too.
What’s the best thing about your job?
It’s a varied and creative role, plus I get the chance to research and analyse information which I enjoy. In addition, I have the chance to meet lots of people who genuinely want to do their best and to do the right thing.
How important is a code of ethics to a company like AWE?
The Code of Ethics sets out our message internally and externally about what we think is important for the company in terms of ethics. It covers many aspects including safety and security, data protection and asset management, care for the environment, bullying, harassment, discrimination and bribery and corruption, to name but a handful! To help everyone understand how issues might arise from these topics, we provide example dilemmas as well as reminders about how to make good decisions and also report concerns. AWE’s Code is a statement to our people, other workers and potential employees that we take ethical matters seriously.
How does your role enable ethical behaviours and practices?
The reactive part of my role investigates concerns into issues with a corporate aspect to them. Any outcomes would be expected to influence positive changes. I also try to be proactive through working with others, such as HR, learning and development and, of course, our Ethics Ambassadors, to promote the right behaviours and practices to prevent issues arising.
What does Global Ethics Day mean to you?
Global Ethics Day is an opportunity to champion corporate ethics – which is about organisational culture. It’s about having a culture in which employees want to come to work and enjoy their work environment, be it at home talking to colleagues online or on site. It’s about making the culture one which ensures safety – both physically and psychologically – and enables good behaviours and security. It’s also about creating a setting in which issues that could cause AWE reputational or financial damage are less likely to arise. Corporate ethics very much focuses on behaviours, along with the prevention of fraud, bribery and corruption, and ensuring we all have a safe and secure working environment.
