Business ethics

We take a zero-tolerance approach to bribery and corruption, financial crimes, and other violations against professional integrity.

RWS is committed to acting professionally, fairly and with integrity in all our business dealings and does so in compliance with the RWS Group Code of Conduct.

We believe that, with our policies, procedures and controls, together with the nature of our business, the risk of the Group encountering financial crime or corruption is low. Nevertheless, we must always be vigilant and prepared to identify such activity and know how to deal with it if encountered.

RWS has specific policies in place which ensure that professional integrity is adhered to covering the following subjects – anti-money laundering, anti-bribery and corruption, financial crime and fraud, modern slavery and human trafficking, sanctions and speaking up, amongst others.

RWS strives to comply with best practice and benchmarks itself against leaders in business ethics and professional integrity, as well using knowledge acquired from attending conferences such as the annual European Compliance and Ethics conference, trade publications and professional subscriptions and legal news and analysis on legal and regulatory issues.

Our Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy complements the QCA Code as regards to observing and upholding the zero tolerance position RWS takes on bribery and corruption, by defining and providing examples of the different types of behaviour likely to be characterized as acts of bribery and corruption and setting out rules applicable to employees with respect to entertainment and gifts. 

We encourage any form of corrupt or suspicious behaviour to be reported either through an independent third-party portal or via internal processes specified in our Speak-up Policy. The investigation and response to any reports received are overseen by members of the Executive Team and reported to the Audit Committee.

Read our Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy

RWS manages its tax affairs responsibility and seeks to build constructive relationships with all tax authorities.

The approach RWS has taken in relation to the management of tax issues is to ensure that:

  • We comply with all applicable laws, disclosure requirements and regulations in the territories in which we do business
  • We have an open and transparent working relationship with the relevant tax authorities around the world
  • Where considered appropriate, the Group takes advice from professional firms
  • Tax risks are appropriately managed in accordance with the tax strategy
  • Our tax planning is aligned with the Group’s commercial and business activities and does not use 'tax haven' countries or other tax avoidance arrangements as part of its tax planning

Read our Tax Strategy

RWS is committed to the highest possible standards of professionalism, accountability and probity. Consistent with this commitment, we acknowledge the importance of having a system in place which will encourage employees and Directors to voice any concerns regarding the activities of RWS or offer a forum for suggestions as to how its activities can be improved. Our Speak-up / Whistleblowing Policy and Procedure provides guidance in the event of any suspected wrongdoing which may arise within the workplace.

We encourage any form of corrupt or suspicious behaviour to be reported either through an independent third-party portal or via internal processes specified in our Speak-up Policy. The investigation and response to any reports received are overseen by members of the Executive Team and reported to the Audit Committee.

Read our Speak-up Policy