Governance & Policies
Code of Ethics
The ethical principles that all BILPM-recognised professionals are expected to uphold in their professional practice and conduct.
Effective 1 June 2026
“Profession built on trust, not self-declaration.”
BILPM recognition carries a binding commitment to these eight principles.
Preamble
A commitment made to the profession — and to the public
BILPM recognises leadership and project management professionals who demonstrate academic achievement, practical competence, and a commitment to the highest standards of conduct. This Code sets out the ethical principles to which all BILPM-recognised individuals — at every grade from Associate to Fellow — are expected to adhere throughout their professional lives.
Upholding this Code is not merely a condition of recognition; it reflects the commitment each recognised professional makes to their clients, employers, colleagues, and society as a whole.
A commitment upheld at every grade
8
Core Principles
Covering every aspect of professional conduct
4
Recognition Grades
All grades carry identical ethical obligations
30+
Disciplines Covered
One unified ethics framework across all areas
100%
Independent
Assessed and enforced by BILPM Standards Committee
The Eight Principles
Core ethical commitments
These principles apply equally to all BILPM-recognised professionals, regardless of grade, discipline, or sector.
Integrity and Honesty
Act with integrity in all professional dealings. Be honest and transparent with clients, employers, colleagues, and the public. Do not misrepresent qualifications, experience, or the scope of work undertaken. Avoid situations where personal interests conflict with professional duties.
Professional Competence
Only undertake leadership and project management work for which you have the necessary qualifications, knowledge, and experience. Maintain and develop competence through continuous professional development. Acknowledge the limits of your expertise and seek qualified assistance where required.
Public Safety and Welfare
Give due regard to the safety, health, and welfare of the public in all professional activities. If your professional judgement is overridden by non-technical authority in a way that risks public safety, clearly communicate your concerns and document them appropriately.
Respect and Inclusion
Treat all colleagues, clients, and members of the public with dignity and respect regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, nationality, or any other characteristic. Actively contribute to an inclusive profession that welcomes diverse perspectives and talents.
Confidentiality
Respect the confidentiality of information acquired in the course of professional work. Do not disclose confidential information without appropriate authorisation, except where required by law, a clear duty to the public, or a professional obligation to report a risk of harm.
Environmental Responsibility
Recognise the responsibility of leadership and project management professionals to protect and, where possible, improve the natural environment. Consider the environmental impact of technical decisions throughout the lifecycle of any project, system, or programme.
Accountability and Responsibility
Take responsibility for work undertaken under your supervision or authority. Acknowledge and learn from errors. Ensure that those working under your direction have the appropriate competence, resources, and supervision to carry out their tasks safely and effectively.
Upholding the Profession
Actively support and promote the standing of the leadership and project management profession. Encourage and mentor future professionals. Refrain from conduct that would discredit BILPM or the wider community. Report, through the appropriate channel, any serious breach of this Code by another BILPM-recognised professional.
Reporting Concerns
Raise a concern, protect the profession
BILPM takes allegations of ethical misconduct seriously. If you have reason to believe that a BILPM-recognised professional has breached this Code, you may report your concerns in writing to BILPM at conduct@bilpm.com.
All reports are treated with appropriate discretion and investigated in accordance with our Complaints Procedure. The subject of any allegation is given a full opportunity to respond before any sanction is imposed.
Consequences of Breach
A formal written caution or reprimand
Requirement to undertake specified remedial CPD or training
Suspension of recognition for a defined period
Withdrawal of BILPM professional recognition
Public notification where required to protect the public interest
Review Cycle
This Code is reviewed periodically
This Code of Ethics is reviewed periodically by the BILPM Ethics and Standards Committee. Recognised professionals are notified of any material changes. Suggestions for improvement may be submitted to standards@bilpm.com.
