Business ethics issues - Compliance Governance
Pros
After an investigation has been launched, the management has begun implementing governance practices and finally recruited a compliance officer. Unfortunately, the main areas for improvement are not a priority and subjects are not addressed properly. Lack of governance and legal framework among new entities has always been an issue. The company emphasizes values such as team cohesion and open communication, which are highlighted in internally (e.g., coffee machine posters, boards) and reinforced by HR during hiring. The company also seeks to promote human values externally.
Cons
In practice, speaking up is often perceived as a threat rather than a strength. Those who speak up while others remain silent will have a cross next to their names and qualified as abrasive and quickly discredited. Impersonating people is a real concern at MBDA. Sales and Business Development are seen as the golden department and have full power over contract management, business strategy, and human ressources, sometimes with conflicts of interests. A senior employee joined and two months later we had to hire his daughter to "to improve the business..." Raising concerns about overspending or weak internal controls can lead to exclusion from meetings and eventual replacement. International Human ressources said "they are not the police” and only here to make contracts for expats. Some people work with PPE while this is completely banned from compliance. Taking independent decisions without prior approval from management often results in being reported to HR. This culture makes it easier to ignore issues and pass them on to others instead of addressing complexity with courage.