Compliance

Unica maintains and implements the highest integrity standards in the form of unequivocal ethical standards and basic principles, as described in the publication ‘We are Unica’ (Wij zijn Unica), the rules of conduct, the ‘Speak out’ (Spreek je uit) protocols on abuse, employment disputes and undesirable behaviour. In line with the public attention for the subject, particular focus was placed on dealing with the topic of unacceptable behaviour in 2022. The protocols and the related information provision include procedures and reporting points for social safety, for which four external regional confidential counsellors have been appointed. The external confidential counsellors and the compliance officer at Unica produce an annual report on the ‘Speak out’ protocols.

Every new employee receives a copy of these protocols upon entering service, and the various individual themes are also regularly brought to the attention of all existing employees. During the company introduction day, new employees also receive training on integrity, compliance and security. To further expand knowledge on specific issues, the Legal Affairs department organises accessible online legal workshops every month, for which every Unica employee is free to register.

In the light of their role model position, Unica focuses particular attention on training for management in ethical behaviour and compliant working practice. Each year, all directors issue a compliance statement, which includes a declaration that they comply with all applicable legislation and regulations. A compliance fraud risk assessment was concluded in 2022, which identified those subject areas that represent the greatest risks, and the current measures were evaluated. In the reassessment of the compliance policy in 2023, a number of further actions will be taken.