This resource explains how QPS expects everyone connected with our business to act ethically, avoid conflicts of interest and report any suspected bribery or improper inducement.
What bribery means
Bribery is offering, promising, giving, requesting or receiving something of value in order to improperly influence a decision or gain an advantage. It is not limited to cash payments. It can include gifts, hospitality, discounts, personal favours, referral incentives, employment opportunities or any other benefit.
Why this matters in recruitment
Recruitment and payroll supply chains involve referrals, preferred supplier lists, commercial incentives and high volumes of worker introductions. Any personal payment or undisclosed benefit linked to referrals can create a conflict of interest and may undermine objective decision-making.
Examples of potential concerns
- A supplier offers a consultant a personal payment for every worker introduced.
- A gift or hospitality offer feels excessive or is made during a tender, audit or commercial negotiation.
- A person asks for payment to move QPS up a preferred supplier list.
- A worker or third party asks for an unofficial payment to speed up onboarding, payroll or documentation.
- A benefit is offered privately rather than through the correct business channels.
The QPS decision test
Before accepting or offering any gift, hospitality or benefit, ask: would I be comfortable explaining this to a director, client, worker or auditor? Would I be comfortable if it appeared publicly? If the answer is no, decline it and report it.
What to do if you are unsure
If something does not feel right, pause and ask for guidance before acting. Concerns should be raised with QPS management or through the appropriate reporting channel. QPS will always prefer a concern to be raised early rather than ignored.
