Ethical Code & Whistleblowing
A Commitment to Transparency, Responsibility, and Sustainability.
At Avantgrade.com, we believe that ethics and transparency are the foundation of everything we do. Our Ethical Code is not just a set of rules but a fundamental reference to ensure a fair, safe, and inclusive work environment while also promoting sustainable practices that reduce our environmental impact. This document defines the behavioral principles that all members of our team are expected to follow.
How to use our ethical code?
Our Ethical Code helps all team members understand how to act and behave correctly during office hours and within workspaces. It serves as a reference framework to provide guidance when we are uncertain about the right course of action. However, it is impossible to predict and prepare for every business situation that might present an ethical dilemma. Therefore, we do not claim that this document is final or exhaustive.
Our Ethical Code does not eliminate the need for common sense; rather, it helps us make the right decisions. In case of doubt, team members should ask themselves the following questions to determine the appropriate course of action:
- Does what you are about to do or say feel right?
- Is it aligned with our Company Values?
- Would you feel comfortable explaining your actions to other team members, managers, clients, family members, or even to the press?
- Is it legal?
If the answer to even one of these questions is “no,” it is probably not the right thing to do. Open a dialogue with your manager to make the appropriate decision and ensure that you continue to “do the right thing.”
What is the ethical code?
This Ethical Code embodies our respect for the law and individuals, as well as our responsibilities towards clients and stakeholders. It provides the foundation for our ethical culture. We are committed to complying with international, national, and local laws and regulations in the countries where we operate in every necessary way.
he Ethical Code establishes, explains, and formalizes the values, rules of conduct, behaviors, and principles of action that we expect from ourselves and that are required in our relationships with stakeholders. It takes precedence over any company policy or procedure.
In the following sections, we aim to provide clarity and guidance, especially in areas that may present ethical dilemmas. In such cases, exercising good judgment can be complex because we may find ourselves in a gray area, where there is a risk of unintentionally breaking the law.
In these situations, any improper behavior could compromise our ethical culture, damage the company’s reputation, and potentially lead to significant penalties. We must follow our Ethical Code wherever we operate, regardless of economic circumstances.
Who is it for, and what are our roles?
Our Ethical Code applies to all members of the company’s team. It is mandatory for everyone at every level of the company. If you hold a leadership position or a team manager role, you must understand that such positions come with additional responsibilities to uphold our ethical behavior.
It is company policy that no one should face retaliation for raising concerns in good faith about practices that might violate this Ethical Code.
Reports | Whistleblowing
Xago Europe SA is committed to maintaining an ethical and transparent work environment. In line with our values and our Code of Ethics, we encourage reporting any behavior that could be perceived as a violation of the Code itself, laws, or current regulations.
How to make a report:
If you have a reasonable suspicion of a violation, we invite you to report your concerns through the following channels:
- Direct contact with your manager: if you feel comfortable, you can discuss the matter directly with your supervisor.
- Dedicated email address: To ensure confidentiality and impartiality, you can send a report to abuse @ avantgrade.com.
- Via ordinary mail to our headquarters for anonymous reports
What to report:
- Violations of this Code of Ethics.
- Illegal or fraudulent behavior.
- Conflicts of interest.
- Discrimination or harassment.
- Failure to comply with laws and regulations.
Whistleblower Protection:
Xago Europe SA guarantees the utmost confidentiality and protection for all those who make reports in good faith. As already established in our Code of Ethics, no one will suffer retaliation for having raised well-founded concerns about potential violations. We encourage transparency and collective responsibility to maintain a fair and safe work environment for everyone.