In the digital era, responsible sourcing and ethical business practices are not just regulatory requirements—they are foundational to building trust, driving sustainable value, and supporting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) leadership. At Publicis Sapient, our Supplier Code of Conduct is the cornerstone of our commitment to ethical partnerships, ensuring that every supplier, partner, and affiliate in our ecosystem upholds the highest standards of integrity, human rights, and environmental stewardship. This page provides a practical, detailed look at how our Supplier Code of Conduct is implemented across our supply chain, supporting our clients’ ESG goals and reinforcing trust at every level.
Publicis Sapient’s Supplier Code of Conduct is built on a clear set of principles that reflect our values and global best practices. These principles are designed to cascade through our entire supply chain, amplifying their impact and ensuring that ethical standards are upheld at every level. Key requirements include:
All new suppliers are required to read and acknowledge the Supplier Code of Conduct as part of the onboarding process. This ensures that every partner understands the standards expected and commits to upholding them from the outset.
During the tendering process, suppliers complete a self-assessment questionnaire detailing their policies and practices related to human rights, labour, and environmental responsibility. High-risk suppliers—such as those operating in regions with elevated risks of modern slavery or those employing temporary, low-skilled workers—undergo enhanced due diligence, including detailed reviews and feedback to address any areas of concern.
Supplier compliance is not a one-time check. We use platforms such as EcoVadis to track and audit suppliers’ corporate social responsibility performance, including health and safety, environmental stewardship, and ethical conduct. Only suppliers who complete the self-assessment and demonstrate commitment to our standards progress to the final selection stage. Annual audits by legal, procurement, and internal audit teams ensure ongoing compliance and continuous improvement.
Suppliers are encouraged to report any actual or potential ethical concerns related to the Code. Publicis Sapient provides confidential channels for reporting, and all concerns are taken seriously and investigated promptly. In cases of material breach, we reserve the right to terminate business relationships to protect the integrity of our supply chain. Whistleblowers are protected from retaliation.
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 have been updated to reinforce these obligations.
Our approach includes:
Publicis Sapient’s commitment to responsible sourcing does not stop at direct suppliers. We require that our standards are cascaded throughout the supply chain, ensuring that subcontractors and partners also adhere to the principles set out in our Code. This approach amplifies our impact, helping to drive positive change and mitigate risks at every level of the value chain.
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:
Scenario 1: Human Rights Compliance
A supplier operating in a high-risk region is flagged during onboarding. Enhanced due diligence reveals gaps in their labour practices. Publicis Sapient works with the supplier to implement corrective actions, including updated policies, training, and regular reporting. Only after demonstrating sustained improvement does the supplier progress to full partnership.
Scenario 2: Environmental Responsibility
A supplier’s EcoVadis audit highlights excessive waste generation. Publicis Sapient collaborates with the supplier to develop a waste reduction plan, set measurable targets, and monitor progress through annual reviews. This not only improves environmental performance but also strengthens the supplier’s business resilience.
Scenario 3: Reporting and Remediation
A concern is raised via our confidential reporting channel about potential labour violations at a subcontractor. The issue is investigated promptly, and remediation steps are agreed upon, including supplier training and enhanced monitoring. Whistleblower protections ensure that those who raised the concern face no retaliation.
Q: What is required of new suppliers during onboarding?
A: All new suppliers must read and acknowledge the Supplier Code of Conduct and complete a self-assessment questionnaire. High-risk suppliers undergo enhanced due diligence.
Q: How does Publicis Sapient monitor ongoing compliance?
A: We use platforms like EcoVadis for CSR audits and conduct annual reviews by legal, procurement, and internal audit teams. Suppliers must annually certify compliance with the Code.
Q: What happens if a supplier breaches the Code?
A: All concerns are investigated promptly. In cases of material breach, Publicis Sapient reserves the right to terminate the business relationship to protect the integrity of our supply chain.
Q: How are standards cascaded through the supply chain?
A: Suppliers are required to ensure their own suppliers and subcontractors comply with the Code, amplifying ethical standards throughout the value chain.
Q: How can concerns be reported?
A: Suppliers and stakeholders can report concerns confidentially through dedicated channels. Whistleblowers are protected from retaliation.
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 clients seeking a partner who leads 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.