As chartered management accountants, CIMA members (and registered students) have a duty to observe the highest standards of conduct and integrity, and to uphold the good standing and reputation of the profession. They must also refrain from any conduct which might discredit the profession. Members and registered students must have regard for these guidelines irrespective of their field of activity, of their contract of employment or of any other professional memberships they may hold.
CIMA upholds the aims and principles of equal opportunities and fundamental human rights worldwide, including the handling of personal information. CIMA promotes the highest ethical and business standards, and encourages members to be responsible professionals.
Good ethical behaviour may be above that required by the law. In a highly competitive, complex business world, it is essential that CIMA members sustain their integrity and remember the trust and confidence which is placed in them by whoever relies on their objectivity and professionalism. Members must avoid actions or situations which are inconsistent with their professional obligations. They should also be guided not merely by the terms but by the spirit of this code.
CIMA members should conduct themselves with courtesy and consideration towards all with whom they have professional dealings and should not behave in a manner which could be considered offensive or discriminatory.
To ensure that CIMA members protect the good standing and reputation of the profession, members must inform the institute if they are convicted or disqualified from acting as an officer of a company, or if they are subject to any sanction resulting from disciplinary action taken by another professional body.
CIMA has adopted the following code of ethics. This code is based on the IFAC* code of ethics. It was developed with input from CIMA and the global accountancy profession. If a member cannot resolve an ehtical issue by following this code or by consulting the ethics support information in CIMA's website, he or she should seek legal advice as to both his or her legal rights and any obligations he or she may have. The CIMA charter, bylaws and regulations should also be referred to for definitive rules on many matter.
NB All references to 'professional accountants' in this code should be taken to refer, as appropriate, to CIMA members or registered students.
CIMA code of ethics for professional accountants (PDF 446KB)
