Code of Conduct and compliance management

Deutsche Post DHL has developed a Code of Conduct that has been applicable in all regions and in all divisions since mid-2006. The Code of Conduct lays down guidelines for day-to-day workplace conduct for our approximately 470,000 employees.

Our principles are respect, tolerance, honesty, openness, integrity towards employees and customers and willingness as a company to assume social responsibility.

The Code of Conduct also sets out our commitment to equal opportunities and to ensuring the health and well-being of our employees. Through its participation in the Anonymised Application Procedures test project, Deutsche Post DHL intends to test whether a greater level of equality of opportunity can be achieved in the job application process by a change in procedures. Managerial posts within the Group are filled according to suitability, aptitude and professional performance, with the Board of Management taking care to ensure diversity and seeking to give women appropriate consideration. During the financial year, the Group was awarded the German Corporate Health Award by the Bundesverband der Betriebskrankenkassen (German association of occupational health insurance funds) and the European Commission for its health management policy, as well as the Corporate Health Award under the aegis of the German Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs.

The Code of Conduct is substantiated by two guidelines: the anti-corruption guideline gives clear instructions on how to handle gifts, benefits and offers of hospitality. A competition guideline gives specific guidance on the prohibition of agreements with competitors. The code of conduct for suppliers is included in all new procurement contracts and has been added to existing long-term framework agreements. It obligates them to adhere to ethical and ecological standards. A ban on child and forced labour is in place. Wages and working hours must correspond with national laws and regulations, and unlawful payments (bribery) are prohibited.

Deutsche Post DHL reviews and develops its compliance management system on an ongoing basis. In 2010, the corresponding administrative team was strengthened. The Chief Compliance Officer reports directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and heads the Global Compliance Office, which develops compliance management standards throughout the Group and supports the corresponding activities undertaken by the divisions. The Compliance Committee, which is comprised of representatives from the divisions, advises the Chief Compliance Officer on the ongoing development of compliance management.