A Deep Dive into Publicis Sapient’s Supplier Code of Conduct: Ensuring Ethical Partnerships in Digital Transformation
Setting the Standard for Responsible, Ethical Supply Chains
At Publicis Sapient, our commitment to responsible business is more than a statement—it is a daily practice embedded in every partnership and transaction. As a leader in digital business transformation, we recognize that our impact extends beyond our own operations to the entire ecosystem of suppliers, partners, and affiliates we engage with. Our Supplier Code of Conduct is the cornerstone of this commitment, setting clear, non-negotiable standards for ethical, social, and environmental responsibility. This page explores how these standards are implemented and monitored in the UK, supporting compliance with the UK Modern Slavery Act and fostering trust across our supply chain.
The Supplier Code of Conduct: Principles and Expectations
Our Supplier Code of Conduct outlines the minimum behaviours, standards, and practices we expect from every supplier. These expectations are grounded in our own values and policies, and are designed to ensure that all suppliers:
- Prohibit forced, bonded, or involuntary labour: All work must be voluntary, and workers must be free to leave employment with reasonable notice. Suppliers must not require workers to lodge deposits or identity papers, nor use any form of forced or trafficked labour.
- Ban child labour: Suppliers must comply with local laws regarding minimum age and must not employ anyone under 18 in hazardous work.
- Ensure fair treatment and equal opportunity: Discrimination in hiring, compensation, training, promotion, or termination based on race, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics is strictly prohibited.
- Provide safe and healthy workplaces: Suppliers must comply with all applicable health and safety laws, taking proactive steps to prevent workplace accidents and injuries.
- Pay fair wages and benefits: Workers must receive at least the minimum wage required by law, all mandated benefits, and fair compensation for overtime, which must be voluntary.
- Respect freedom of association: Workers must be free to join or not join unions and seek representation in accordance with local laws.
- Uphold environmental responsibility: Suppliers must comply with environmental laws and strive to minimize their environmental impact through responsible management of waste, energy, and emissions.
- Adhere to ethical business conduct: There is zero tolerance for bribery, corruption, facilitation payments, or tax evasion. Suppliers must also protect data privacy and comply with all relevant laws.
- Cascade standards through the supply chain: Suppliers are expected to ensure their own suppliers and subcontractors comply with these principles.
Implementation in the UK: From Onboarding to Ongoing Monitoring
Supplier Onboarding and Acknowledgement
All new suppliers in the UK are required to read and formally acknowledge the Supplier Code of Conduct as part of the onboarding process. This ensures a shared understanding of our expectations from the outset and establishes a foundation for ethical collaboration.
Due Diligence and Risk Assessment
During the tendering process, suppliers complete a comprehensive 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.
Annual Certification and Ongoing Audits
Supplier compliance is not a one-time check. All suppliers are required to annually certify their understanding and compliance with our Code and the UK Modern Slavery Act. 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.
Reporting and Remediation
We maintain confidential channels for reporting concerns, including a dedicated email address for ethical issues. All reports are investigated promptly, and whistleblowers are protected from retaliation. In cases of material breach, we reserve the right to terminate business relationships to protect the integrity of our supply chain.
Supporting Compliance with the UK Modern Slavery Act
Operating in the UK means upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct. Publicis Sapient is fully committed to the principles of the UK Modern Slavery Act. We publish annual Modern Slavery Statements, outlining the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. Our approach includes:
- Mandatory adherence to the Supplier Code of Conduct for all suppliers
- Self-assessment and annual certification of compliance with our Code and the Act
- Ongoing monitoring and audits using platforms like EcoVadis
- Employee training on modern slavery risks and reporting procedures
- Transparent, confidential channels for reporting concerns
Local Supplier Engagement and Payment Practices
We are committed to fair and transparent engagement with local suppliers. Our standard payment terms are 30 days from invoice, and we resolve any payment disputes promptly through our Accounts Payable team. We do not charge suppliers for remaining on our supplier list, nor do we offer supply chain finance or e-invoicing at this time. This approach is designed to foster trust and reliability in our supplier relationships, supporting the health of the UK’s business ecosystem.
Social Impact and ESG Leadership
Our commitment to responsible business extends beyond compliance. Initiatives like the ‘Sending Machine’—a contactless donation device supporting UK food banks—demonstrate how we harness technology for social good. We also publish a UK Gender Pay Gap Report, providing transparency on pay equity and outlining our ongoing efforts to close the gap. These actions reflect our belief that a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace is essential for innovation and long-term success.
Why Choose Publicis Sapient for Responsible Digital Transformation?
- Proven Track Record: Decades of experience with the UK’s top brands across banking, energy, retail, and mobility.
- Tailored, Compliant Solutions: Sector-specific strategies that address the unique challenges and regulatory requirements of the UK market.
- Innovation with Integrity: Agile teams delivering measurable results, underpinned by a commitment to transparency, ethics, and ESG leadership.
Connect with Us
If your organization is seeking a partner for purpose-driven digital transformation—one that combines innovation with a steadfast commitment to social impact and responsible business—Publicis Sapient is ready to help. Visit our London office at Turnmills, 63 Turnmill Street, EC1M 5RR, or contact our team to start a conversation about your next chapter.
Publicis Sapient: Driving responsible digital transformation for a better UK.