Code of Conduct

Professional standards for Brackley Business Association members

Code of Conduct - Professional Standards

Our Commitment

The Brackley Business Association is committed to maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct. This Code applies to all members, their Representatives, and Board members in all BBA-related activities.

Core Principles

1. Integrity

Act honestly and transparently in all dealings
Honor commitments made to fellow members
Declare conflicts of interest promptly
Maintain confidentiality when required

2. Respect

Treat all members with courtesy and professionalism
Value diverse opinions and perspectives
Support inclusive participation
Respect meeting procedures and time

3. Collaboration

Work constructively with fellow members
Share knowledge and opportunities
Support collective decisions once made
Contribute positively to BBA objectives

4. Accountability

Take responsibility for your actions
Meet financial obligations promptly
Attend meetings you commit to
Follow through on volunteer commitments

Professional Standards

In Meetings

Arrive prepared and on time
Allow others to speak without interruption
Keep contributions relevant and concise
Respect the Chair’s authority
Switch phones to silent

In Communications

Respond to emails professionally and promptly
Use appropriate language at all times
Respect confidential information
Avoid inflammatory social media posts
Direct concerns through proper channels

In Business Dealings

Maintain fair business practices
Honor agreements with fellow members
Resolve disputes professionally
Avoid undermining other members
Promote Brackley businesses positively

In the Community

Represent BBA professionally
Support town centre initiatives
Engage constructively with councils
Be a positive ambassador for Brackley
Respect all stakeholders

Unacceptable Behavior

The following behaviors are incompatible with membership:

Serious Misconduct

Fraudulent or illegal activities
Discrimination or harassment
Breach of confidentiality
Deliberate damage to BBA reputation
Misuse of BBA resources or name

Disruptive Behavior

Persistent interruption of meetings
Aggressive or threatening conduct
Spreading false information
Undermining democratic decisions
Creating unnecessary conflict

Financial Misconduct

Persistent non-payment of fees
Misuse of BBA funds
False expense claims
Unauthorized use of BBA name for profit

Enforcement

Process

Informal Resolution - Direct discussion between parties
Formal Complaint - Written complaint to Board
Investigation - Board reviews within 14 days
Decision - Board determines action needed
Appeal - Right to appeal to EGM

Sanctions

Depending on severity, sanctions may include:

Verbal warning
Written warning
Temporary suspension
Termination of membership
Legal action if warranted

Natural Justice

Right to know allegations
Right to respond
Right to representation
Right to appeal
Decisions made fairly

Conflicts of Interest

Declaration Required When:

Personal benefit from BBA decisions
Family member benefit
Business partner involvement
Financial interest in outcomes
Competing loyalties exist

Management Process:

Declare interest immediately
Withdraw from discussions
Abstain from voting
Leave room if requested
Record in minutes

Confidentiality

Confidential Information Includes:

Member personal data
Business sensitive information
Board discussions (when specified)
Legal matters
Strategic plans before release

Obligations:

Protect confidential information
Use only for BBA purposes
Don’t share without permission
Continue after membership ends
Report any breaches

Do:

Promote BBA positively
Share official BBA content
Celebrate member successes
Use #BrackleyBusiness
Be factual and respectful

Don’t:

Claim to speak for BBA
Share confidential information
Criticize members publicly
Post inflammatory content
Damage BBA reputation

Board Member Additional Standards

Board members must also:

Attend board meetings regularly
Prepare thoroughly for meetings
Act in BBA’s best interests
Maintain higher confidentiality
Lead by example

Reporting Concerns

If you witness or experience conduct breaches:

Minor Issues: Speak directly to the person
Serious Concerns: Email the Secretary
Board Issues: Contact the Chair
Chair Issues: Request EGM

All reports treated confidentially where possible.

Review and Updates

This Code of Conduct:

Reviewed annually by Board
Updated by member vote at AGM
Communicated to all new members
Published on website
Incorporated in membership terms

Commitment

By maintaining membership, you agree to:

Uphold these standards
Promote positive conduct
Report serious breaches
Accept enforcement decisions
Contribute to professional culture

“Professional conduct builds trust, trust builds community, community builds success”

Questions about this Code? Contact: hello@brackleybusiness.org.uk

Adopted: June 2025 Next Review: June 2026