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The ethics of accountability

Wednesday 10 November, 2021
by The Banking and Financial Services Oath

You are the CEO of a financial institution. Jean has been working at your company for 30 years and has responsibility for payroll. She's the office 'gem'. She's beloved by all her colleagues and has been a wonderful asset to your organisation from both a cultural and operational perspective; she knows what she's doing. 

Last week the auditors reported that $23,720.30 had been marked up as miscellaneous but could not be accounted for. When questioned about it, Jean advised that the General Manager (GM) had requested her to reimburse that amount in two invoices.

Jean recalls that on that day she was visiting her son in hospital and the GM insisted he’d complete the necessary paperwork on her behalf. The GM has no recollection of this conversation and suggests Jean might be slipping.

Your investigation has been fruitless but the board is demanding accountability.  

What would you do?

Photo by sk on Unsplash

The Oath

  • Trust is the foundation of my profession.
  • I will serve all interests in good faith.
  • I will compete with honour.
  • I will pursue my ends with ethical restraint.
  • I will help create a sustainable future.
  • I will help create a more just society.
  • I will speak out against wrongdoing and support others who do the same.
  • I will accept responsibility for my actions.
  • In these and all other matters;
    My word is my bond.