The compliance field often positions small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as too small for compliance. MNCs may view SMEs as high risk and the weakest link in a compliance program. This series will challenge that perspective by building off discussions on how SMEs can build imperfect integrity programs and thrive while building integrity into their operations with fewer resources. And will take an in-depth look at how SMEs engage in effective compliance and build meaningful in

Thankfully, technology can help with many of these pivots in compliance plans—keeping you on track and efficient—allowing time to still focus on pressing compliance concerns throughout the year.

Compliance teams operating globally must navigate both international anti-corruption regulations and local laws. The UK Bribery Act and the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) provide bright-line rules. However, real world interactions are often more complex and do not neatly align with rules. In some places, offering a small favor or a gift is a sign of hospitality and respect, not an attempt to create undue influence.

Not all compliance failures are dramatic scandals; some failures unfold slowly with small warning signs that something is awry. These signs can go unnoticed and never get addressed, especially in busy environments where teams focus on day-to-day operations. Spotting these warning signs makes all the difference for ethics and compliance professionals.

I understand that “imperfect” might induce some quease. And, yes, third party due diligence should be as close to perfect as available tools and budgets permit. But risk assessments aren’t perfect and don’t need to be to be defensible. Compliance professionals rarely agree on all criteria for a risk-ranking, much less the relative weight assigned to each.

Dealing with unethical behavior and corruption inside your organization is challenging. It requires a mix of leadership, legal acumen, and emotional intelligence. During a crisis, executive, legal, and compliance teams should consider ways to ensure the investigation process acknowledges the human element of an investigation while maintaining integrity. Whether wrapping up an investigation or preparing for a day that never arrives, addressing corruption requires legal precisi