Code of Ethics

Introduction

The BMCAP Code of Ethics sets the standard for integrity, professionalism, and responsibility in the practice of business and management consulting. Consultants have a duty to serve clients, stakeholders, and the public with transparency and ethical rigor. This Code provides principles, a framework for ethical decision-making, and practical guidance for professional conduct.

Note: BMCAP does not engage in direct commercial consulting as a group but encourages member collaboration.

Core Ethical Principles

1. Integrity

Be honest and transparent.
Disclose limitations and correct mistakes.
Deliver what is promised.

2. Confidentiality

Protect client information at all times.
Comply with local and international data privacy laws.
Limit access and avoid unauthorized use of information.

3. Objectivity & Independence

Avoid bias or external influence.
Disclose and manage conflicts of interest.
Maintain professional distance and impartiality.

4. Professional Competence

Operate within your area of expertise.
Engage in ongoing education.
Mentor junior consultants.

5. Transparency & Fair Dealing

Clearly outline engagement terms and fees.
Communicate changes promptly.
Avoid deceptive billing or manipulation of timelines.

6. Responsibility to Clients

Put clients' interests first.
Deliver actionable, ethical, and value-driven advice.
Refuse engagements that involve unethical practices.

7. Social Responsibility & Sustainability

Encourage responsible, inclusive, and sustainable practices.
Consider long-term societal and environmental impacts.

8. Compliance with Laws

Follow all legal requirements relevant to your work.
Never support or advise on unlawful practices.
Report unethical or illegal activities as needed.

9. Respect for Colleagues & the Profession

Maintain professionalism with peers.
Support the consulting community through knowledge-sharing.
Report unethical behavior.

10. Accountability

Take responsibility for your actions and advice.
Cooperate with reviews and investigations.

Ethical Decision-Making Framework

Step 1: Identify Threats

Self-Interest: Personal or financial bias
Execution: Lack of skill or resources
Privileged Information: Misuse of client data
Intimidation: Pressure from stakeholders
Affinity: Overfamiliarity with the client

Step 2: Evaluate Risks

Type, magnitude, and combination of threats
Organizational safeguards and personal competence

Step 3: Apply Safeguards

Disclose conflicts of interest
Use confidentiality agreements and data access controls
Document interactions, rotate staff, or bring in external reviewers

Step 4: Disengage if Necessary

If ethical risks cannot be mitigated, PBMCs must withdraw from the engagement.

Monitoring & Documentation

Track identified threats and applied safeguards
Review risk assessments throughout the project
Maintain documentation to ensure transparency and accountability

Member Acknowledgment

All BMCAP members must formally acknowledge and commit to this Code of Ethics as a condition of their professional membership and accountability.