Assignment of a competent and respected ethics and compliance officer is not only a critical requirement for a quality program but is also a mandate for those companies doing business with the Federal government. Additionally, the ethics and compliance officer must have direct access to the senior company leadership, either the CEO or to the board of directors.
However, most importantly, the ethics and compliance officer must have the trust and confidence of all the stakeholders in the organization to include but not be limited to employees, managers, customers, vendors, and industry partners.
“In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence, and energy. And if they don't have the first, the other two will kill you.” -Warren Buffett