Code of Conduct for Engaging with University Research and Business Engagement Colleagues

Introduction

The University’s Dignity at Work and Study Policy defines Acceptable Behaviour as follows:

All members of the University community are responsible for ensuring that they behave in an acceptable manner, showing respect for staff, students, and visitors. They should consider their own behaviour and the impact it can have on others. Legitimate, reasonable and constructive criticism of performance or behaviour, or reasonable instructions given to staff or students at the University, will not amount to unacceptable behaviour on their own.

This Code of Conduct sets out the University’s behavioural expectations for those engaging with Research and Business Engagement colleagues. It covers all interactions, whether in person, by email, or via electronic platforms. All staff and students should follow this Code to maintain a positive, collegial and trustworthy environment.

1. Core Principles

• All activities must be conducted with honesty and accuracy.
• Interactions must be conducted with courtesy and professionalism.
• Diverse viewpoints must be respected, and a safe, inclusive environment actively maintained.

2. Expectations for Engagement

2.1 Communication

• Use clear and respectful communication in all interactions (in person as well as digitally via Teams, emails, etc).
• Adhere to digital etiquette, be mindful of the tone of communications and avoid excessive use of capitals/italics/bold to make a point.
• Have reasonable expectations of response times.

2.2 Professional Conduct

• Engage with professionalism, empathy and courtesy, regardless of outcome.
• Receive feedback, advice and decisions respectfully.
• Avoid personal attacks, disparaging remarks (including on social media), or retaliation if an outcome is not as desired.
• If an outcome is not as desired, follow the appropriate/published process for raising your concerns.

3. Unacceptable Behaviour

The following behaviours are unacceptable and may constitute misconduct under certain University policies.
Attempting to unduly influence decisions.

• Engaging in behaviours that constitute harassment (e.g. sending multiple, hostile emails rather than following due process to raise a disagreement with a decision).
• Discrimination, for example by not valuing the opinion/advice of others.

4. Reporting and Resolution

Failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct will result in the following process:

1. Initially a reminder of the need to adhere to the Code of Conduct will be issued.
2. Failure to respond positively to this reminder will result in the issue being raised with your Supervisor/Line Manager.
3. More serious or persistent breaches of this Code of Conduct will be raised through the University’s Dignity at Work and Study Policy