Member Code of Conduct at Industry and Association Events

  1. Purpose and Scope

This Code of Conduct sets expectations for behaviour by all members of the BPMA when representing the association or attending:

  • Industry events (e.g. trade shows, networking events, conferences)
  • Association-led events (e.g. seminars, dinners, awards, networking, exhibitions etc)
  • The goal is to ensure a professional, respectful, inclusive and safe environment for all participants
  1. General Principles

All members must:

  • Conduct themselves with professionalism and integrity
  • Act in a manner that upholds the reputation of the association and the wider industry
  • Respect the diversity, rights and dignity of all participants
  • Comply with the laws, venue rules, and event policies in place at any event
  1. Expected Behaviour

Members are expected to:

  • Be courteous and respectful to all delegates, organisers, venue staff and third parties
  • Promote an environment free from harassment, bullying, intimidation or any form of discrimination
  • Dress appropriately and maintain standards consistent with the professional nature of the event
  • Avoid any behaviours that could be construed as aggressive, inappropriate, or unprofessional including verbal, physical or online actions
  • Consume alcohol responsibly and not engage in behaviour under the influence of alcohol that might bring the association or member
  • business into disrepute
  • Respect the confidentiality of business discussions and commercial information shared at events
  • Honour commitments made during events and follow up in a timely manner
  1. Additional Expectations at Association Events

When attending association-hosted events:

  • Members are seen as ambassadors of the association—conduct should reflect this
  • Members must not engage in disruptive behaviour, including uninvited sales pitching, inappropriate conduct during formal segments,
  • or disregard for event timings and logistics
  • Please be courteous and respectful to speakers and give them your attention whilst they are presenting
  • Participation in any event-specific code of conduct, health and safety briefing, or pre-event guidance is required.
  • Members are encouraged to report concerns or inappropriate behaviour to the association team or designated safeguarding lead
  1. Breaches and Disciplinary Action

Breaches of this code may result in:

  • Verbal or written warnings
  • Removal from an event without refund
  • Referral to the association’s Disciplinary Committee
  • Temporary or permanent suspension of membership
  • Public clarification of the association’s position if needed to protect its reputation
  1. Reporting Concerns

Members and attendees can report concerns confidentially to a BPMA Board Director or member of the BPMA Executive Team.
The BPMA will appoint a designated welfare officer ahead of each event.
Anonymous reporting is permitted, though it may limit the ability to act on complaints.

  1. Review and Updates

This Code of Conduct will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect evolving standards and best practice in the industry