A Deep Dive into Publicis Sapient’s Supplier Code of Conduct: Ensuring Ethical Partnerships in Digital Transformation

Introduction

In the digital era, ethical sourcing and responsible business practices are not just regulatory requirements—they are the foundation of trust, resilience, and sustainable value. At Publicis Sapient, our Supplier Code of Conduct is central to our commitment to ethical partnerships, supporting our clients’ digital transformation journeys while upholding the highest standards of human rights, environmental stewardship, and business integrity. This page provides a comprehensive exploration of our Supplier Code of Conduct, detailing its principles, requirements, and practical applications, and offering guidance for suppliers and procurement professionals seeking to align with our standards.

Principles and Requirements: The Foundation of Responsible Sourcing

Publicis Sapient’s Supplier Code of Conduct sets clear, non-negotiable expectations for all suppliers, partners, and affiliates. The Code is built on the following core principles:

Respect for Human Rights: Suppliers must prohibit all forms of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour. All work must be voluntary, and workers must be free to leave employment with reasonable notice. Child labour is strictly forbidden, and all workers must be treated with dignity and respect, free from discrimination, harassment, or abuse.
Fair Labour Practices: Suppliers are required to comply with all applicable international and national laws regarding labour, including fair pay, working hours, and benefits. Overtime must be voluntary and compensated appropriately, and all workers must receive at least the minimum wage mandated by local law.
Safe and Healthy Workplaces: Suppliers must provide a safe and healthy working environment, comply with all relevant health and safety laws, and take proactive steps to prevent workplace accidents and injuries.
Environmental Responsibility: Suppliers must comply with environmental laws and strive to minimize their environmental impact through responsible management of waste, energy, water, and emissions.
Ethical Business Conduct: Zero tolerance for bribery, corruption, and facilitation payments is a cornerstone of the Code. Suppliers must comply with all anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws, avoid conflicts of interest, and protect confidential and personal data in accordance with legal requirements.
Supply Chain Responsibility: Suppliers are expected to cascade these standards throughout their own supply chains, ensuring that their subcontractors and partners also adhere to the principles set out in the Code.

Practical Application: From Onboarding to Ongoing Monitoring

Supplier Onboarding and Acknowledgement

All new suppliers are required to read and acknowledge the Supplier Code of Conduct as part of the onboarding process. This ensures a shared understanding of our standards from the outset and a clear commitment to upholding them.

Due Diligence and Risk Assessment

During the tendering process, suppliers complete a self-assessment questionnaire covering human rights, labour, and environmental practices. High-risk suppliers—such as those operating outside the UK or EEA, or employing temporary low-skilled workers—undergo enhanced due diligence, including detailed reviews and feedback to address any concerns. Only suppliers who demonstrate a commitment to our standards progress to the final selection stage.

Ongoing Monitoring and Auditing

Supplier compliance is not a one-time check. We use platforms like EcoVadis to audit suppliers’ corporate social responsibility performance, including health and safety, environmental stewardship, and ethical conduct. Annual audits by our legal, procurement, and internal audit teams ensure ongoing compliance and continuous improvement. Suppliers are also required to annually certify their understanding and compliance with our Code and the UK Modern Slavery Act.

Reporting Mechanisms and Remediation

We maintain confidential channels for reporting concerns, and all reports are investigated promptly. Whistleblowers are protected from retaliation, and in cases of material breach, we reserve the right to terminate business relationships to protect the integrity of our supply chain. Suppliers are encouraged to report any actual or potential ethical concerns related to the Code, ensuring transparency and accountability at every level.

Supporting ESG Goals and Modern Slavery Compliance

Our Supplier Code of Conduct is a critical tool in our fight against modern slavery and human trafficking. In line with the UK Modern Slavery Act and international human rights standards, the Code explicitly prohibits forced labour, child labour, and any form of exploitation. Suppliers must annually certify their understanding and compliance with these requirements, and our contracts and purchase order terms reinforce these obligations. Our approach includes:

Annual Modern Slavery Statements: Transparent reporting on our actions and progress in preventing slavery and human trafficking.
Employee and Supplier Training: Ongoing education to raise awareness and empower individuals to identify and address risks.
Continuous Review: Regular assessment of supply chain risks and effectiveness of our processes, with updates reflected in future statements and policies.

Cascading Standards Throughout the Supply Chain

Suppliers are not only expected to comply with our Code themselves, but also to ensure that their own suppliers and subcontractors do the same. This cascading of standards amplifies our impact, helping to drive ethical practices and respect for human rights throughout the broader digital transformation ecosystem.

Practical Guidance for Suppliers

To meet Publicis Sapient’s expectations, suppliers should:

Ensure leadership and employees are familiar with the Supplier Code of Conduct and its requirements.
Complete self-assessment questionnaires honestly and thoroughly, and certify compliance annually.
Implement robust policies on human rights, environmental responsibility, and anti-slavery that meet or exceed the standards set out in the Code.
Cascade these standards to their own suppliers and subcontractors, and monitor their compliance.
Engage in continuous improvement and work collaboratively with Publicis Sapient to address any gaps.

Best Practices in Action

Onboarding: All new suppliers must read and acknowledge the Code.
Risk Assessment: Suppliers complete a self-assessment; high-risk suppliers receive enhanced review.
Ongoing Audits: Annual audits ensure compliance and drive improvement.
Reporting: Confidential channels are available for reporting concerns, with prompt investigation and remediation.
Annual Statements: We publish annual Modern Slavery Statements, providing transparency on our actions and progress.

The Business Value of Ethical Partnerships

Ethical supplier relationships are not just about compliance—they are a source of competitive advantage. By partnering with suppliers who share our values, Publicis Sapient:

Mitigates operational and reputational risks
Builds trust with clients, investors, and communities
Supports ESG and regulatory compliance
Drives innovation and resilience through a transparent, accountable supply chain

Conclusion

Publicis Sapient’s Supplier Code of Conduct is more than a policy—it is a living commitment to ethical partnerships, responsible sourcing, and human rights. By embedding these standards into every supplier relationship, we create a foundation for sustainable growth, innovation, and trust in the digital age. For procurement professionals, compliance officers, and suppliers seeking to lead with integrity, Publicis Sapient stands as a beacon of responsible digital transformation.

For more information or to report a concern, suppliers and stakeholders are encouraged to contact us through the confidential channels provided. Together, we can build a digital future that is not only innovative, but ethical and just.