At Mercedes-benz Of Naples, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of business and personal ethics in all our operations and interactions. Our dedication to honesty and integrity is fundamental to how we conduct our business and serve our valued customers. Every director, officer, and employee is expected to uphold these ethical principles in their daily duties and responsibilities, ensuring full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Our Commitment to Ethical Conduct
This policy is designed to foster an environment where all team members, from our sales staff to our service technicians, feel empowered to raise concerns internally. By doing so, Mercedes-Benz of Naples can promptly address and rectify any inappropriate conduct or actions, reinforcing our commitment to ethical operations. It is the responsibility of every member of our Mercedes-Benz of Naples family – board members, officers, employees, and volunteers – to report any concerns regarding potential violations of our code of ethics or suspected breaches of laws and regulations governing our dealership.
Zero Tolerance for Retaliation
Mercedes-Benz of Naples has a strict stance against retaliation. Any form of reprisal against a board member, officer, employee, or volunteer who, in good faith, reports an ethics violation or a suspected legal violation, such as discrimination, fraud, or regulatory breaches, is unacceptable and goes against our core values. Any employee found to have retaliated against an individual who reported a violation in good faith will face disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
Clear Reporting Procedures
Mercedes-Benz of Naples maintains an open-door policy to ensure every voice is heard. We encourage employees to initially discuss any questions, concerns, suggestions, or complaints with their immediate supervisor. This first step allows for quick resolution and open communication. However, if an employee is not comfortable speaking with their supervisor, or if they are unsatisfied with the supervisor’s response, they are encouraged to escalate their concerns to the Executive Director or a designated board member. Supervisors and managers are required to document and report all complaints or concerns related to suspected ethical or legal violations in writing to the Mercedes-Benz of Naples Human Resources Director. The HR Director is entrusted with the responsibility of thoroughly investigating all reported complaints to ensure fairness and due process. Employees also have the option to submit their concerns directly in writing to their supervisor, the Executive Director, or the dealership’s Compliance Officer for a confidential review.
Dedicated Compliance Officer
At Mercedes-Benz of Naples, our Human Resources Director serves as the designated Compliance Officer. This crucial role ensures that all complaints concerning unethical or illegal conduct are meticulously investigated and resolved in a timely manner. The Compliance Officer will keep the Executive Director and/or the Board of Directors informed of all complaints received, the progress of investigations, and their resolutions. Furthermore, the Compliance Officer provides an annual report to the Chair of the Finance Committee, specifically detailing compliance activities related to accounting practices or any allegations of financial irregularities, ensuring transparency and accountability in our financial operations.
Handling Accounting and Auditing Concerns
The integrity of our financial practices is paramount at Mercedes-Benz of Naples. Therefore, the Human Resources Director, in their capacity as Compliance Officer, is mandated to immediately notify the Chair of the Finance Committee or the Executive Director of any concerns or complaints pertaining to corporate accounting practices, internal controls, or auditing procedures. The Compliance Officer will work closely with the Finance Committee to address and resolve these matters swiftly and effectively, maintaining the financial trustworthiness of Mercedes-Benz of Naples.
Acting with Integrity and Good Faith
Mercedes-Benz of Naples emphasizes the importance of good faith in reporting potential violations. Anyone who files a written complaint regarding a violation or suspected violation must act in good faith and have reasonable grounds to believe that the information disclosed indicates a genuine violation. Conversely, any allegations proven to be unsubstantiated and found to have been made maliciously or knowingly false will be considered a serious disciplinary offense. This measure protects against abuse of the reporting system and ensures its integrity for genuine concerns.
Commitment to Confidentiality
Mercedes-Benz of Naples understands the sensitive nature of reporting violations. Violations or suspected violations can be submitted on a confidential basis by the complainant, providing reassurance and encouraging open communication. Reports of violations or suspected violations will be treated with the utmost confidentiality to the extent possible, consistent with the necessity to conduct a thorough and adequate investigation. We strive to protect the identity of the complainant while ensuring a fair and comprehensive investigation process.
Thorough Investigation of Reported Violations
The Human Resources Director at Mercedes-Benz of Naples will promptly acknowledge receipt of any reported violation or suspected violation to the person who submitted the complaint, ensuring transparency and communication throughout the process. All reports are investigated thoroughly and without delay. If the investigation substantiates the reported violation, appropriate corrective action will be taken promptly to address the issue and prevent future occurrences, reinforcing our commitment to ethical conduct and continuous improvement at Mercedes-Benz of Naples.
