. For example, a buyer cannot award a contract to a supplier owned
by a friend without declaring the relationship.
Secondly, the code emphasises transparency and fairness. Procurement professionals must ensure all
suppliers are treated equally and given the same information during tendering processes. This
prevents favouritism or hidden advantages for certain suppliers.
Thirdly, the code demands professional competence. This includes basing supplier decisions on
objective evaluation criteria such as cost, quality, risk, and sustainability, rather than subjective or
biased views. By applying standard evaluation models, professionals avoid unconscious bias.
Fourthly, the code promotes accountability. Procurement professionals are expected to keep proper
records of decisions and provide audit trails. This reduces the opportunity for unethical practices
such as bribery or corruption and ensures decisions can be justified.
Finally, the code supports sustainability and social responsibility. By considering environmental,
ethical, and social factors in procurement, professionals act in the best interests of society and avoid
discriminatory or exploitative practices.
Conclusion:
By following the CIPS Code of Conduct, procurement professionals remain unbiased by avoiding
conflicts of interest, ensuring fairness, and using objective criteri
a. They also act ethically by maintaining transparency, accountability, and responsibility to wider
society. This builds trust with stakeholders, improves supplier relationships, and protects the
reputation of both the individual and their organisation.
