The Top 200 Ethical Governance Award

2010 is the twelfth year of the Top 200 Ethical Governance Award. When first introduced in 1999 it was greeted with cynicism by some in the business community who viewed it as an oxymoron believing that it isn’t possible to do well (make money) and do good (make a difference). Ten years of inspiring examples from the Ethical Governance Award finalists have guided others and demonstrated how leading New Zealand businesses are creating environmental and social as well as economic wealth.

For many years, the Deloitte/Management Magazine Top 200 Awards have recognised businesses which show leadership and innovation in a variety of key areas. Management Magazine in conjunction with Dr Rodger Spiller have identified business ethics as one of the most vital issues connected to the business of leadership.

While the boards of most New Zealand businesses could be expected to say they believe in ethical governance and that they are supportive of it many struggle to identify specific examples of ethical leadership within their companies. Rather than having business ethics front and centre on the board agenda for many it is a nice idea that is left to management where it may happen to happen but not as part of a board led strategic imperative.

These Awards recognise the increasing awareness that a commitment to business ethics and a responsible approach to society and the environment provides significant long-term benefits for all the company’s stakeholders, including shareholders.

The New Zealand Business Ethics Award identifies business practices that provide guidance in shaping the future of New Zealand business. Nominees are assessed in terms of their ability to demonstrate a clear purpose behind the practice(s), that the principles have been thought through, and that there has been effective performance measurement.

Consideration is also given to the company’s recognition of business ethics through the organisation’s statement of purpose and principles, code of ethics or values statement.

The Ethics Award salutes business people and organisations committed to demonstrating the 4Ps of ethical business – purpose, principles, practices and performance measurement.


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