Kernel confidently challenges stereotypes about the impossibility to run both efficient and honest business in Ukraine. Following a series of inspections and having confirmed the status of a transparent company, Kernel has joined the UNIC (The Ukrainian Network of Integrity and Compliance), a new initiative for business which seeks to work ethically and responsibly.
We started preparing for this important step in 2015, when the Corporate Code of Conduct was approved and the Conflict of Interest and Counteracting Fraud and Corruption Policy (CICFCP) was introduced in Kernel. Since 2017, measures have been taken to strengthen the Compliance Program, which was substantially updated and expanded in 2018 in terms of anti-corruption controls. We manage to achieve remarkable changes in this direction during this relatively short period. This is evidenced by the findings of external international auditors, which confirm the high level of implementation of international compliance requirements in the Company.
“Counteracting corruption and any other similar manifestations is a long-term systematic process Kernel’s spends much time and pays attention to. The compliant function appearance allowed us to work more efficiently and contributed to the strengthening of the atmosphere of trust and transparency. By incorporating compliance measures into operational processes we not only minimized risks but also introduced the proper culture of doing business for partners and counterparties. Moreover, we not only technically follow the external requirements but also communicate to the public our message on the support of international and national anti-corruption initiatives as well as create anti-corruption ideology”, says Olena Dubovska, Kernel’s Compliance Manager.
Kernel had no problems with the compliance with the conditions for joining the Ukrainian Network of Integrity and Compliance since the Company’s management always focused on the anti-corruption program, and transparent business has always been a philosophy the company respected in all areas of work. Being one of the leaders in the agrarian sector, Kernel is not only an example to other market participants but also assumes responsibility of transforming outdated anti-corruption approaches into effective rules of fair play.
“We fully share the UNIC’s principles and are proud to be a part of this organization. This is an excellent platform for advancing the idea of responsible business and implementing the standards of integrity declared by world practices. By active participation in the activity and promotion of the Network principles, business gets a number of advantages: business reputation is improved, competitiveness increases, the quality of relationships with partners improves, and high standards of entrepreneurship are confirmed. We strive to be the best in our business. Therefore, we do consider our membership in the UNIC as not as a tribute to fashion or the usual formality, but as a unique opportunity to improve our activities in terms of integrity and honesty”, – comments Olena Dubovska.
Despite the positive compliance audit outcomes and the tendency to reduce the number of abuses in the past marketing year, Kernel continues monitoring relationships both within the Company and with counterparties in terms of potential corruption risks. Consistency is a key to success.
