Our Duty to Speak Up
What should I do if I discover or suspect misconduct?
Even the most ethical companies can have conduct issues; it’s how we deal with those issues that will flag our commitment to our Guiding Principles and set us apart from other companies.
Reporting misconduct takes courage, but it’s the right thing to do. Cargill will not tolerate retaliation against anyone who, in good faith, raises a concern, reports misconduct or participates in an investigation.
Where should I start?
Talk to your manager. If you’re not comfortable doing so, or if your manager doesn’t respond appropriately, reach out to any of the following:
- Your Human Resources Manager
- Your Business or Function Leader
- The Ethics and Compliance Office at ethics@Cargill.com
You may also submit a confidential report via Cargill’s Ethics Open Line. It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for employees anywhere in the world, and depending on the country in which you reside, you can choose to report anonymously.
How will Cargill respond?
Cargill will investigate any reports fairly and appropriately. We will take all necessary steps to address any violations of our Code or our policies.
We do not tolerate any retaliation against someone who makes a report in good faith about a concern, or who cooperates or participates in any investigation. If you experience or discover retaliation, either in person or online, please report it to your manager or any of the above Speak Up resources. Review Cargill’s Anti-Retaliation Policy for guidance.
Q & A
One of my employees is raising concerns about a new law that applies to our operations. He suspects that not everyone on the team is following the law appropriately. I question his conclusions, however. What should I do?
Even if you have doubts, take the report seriously. Thank the employee for speaking up and listen attentively to his concerns. Ask clarifying questions. Take good notes and forward his concerns to the Ethics and Compliance Office, along with your own assessment. Keep in mind that you should not conduct your own investigation into the matter; contact the Ethics and Compliance Office for assistance.