Code of Practice

The Executive Research Association (ERA) is the leading Association and resource for professional executive Researchers; encompassing training, personal and corporate development, business growth and networking. The ERA seeks at all times to inspire, equip, and motivate its members to convey to the executive search sector and the corporate community, in words and deeds, the value of using professional executive research services.

ERA members undertake on joining the Association to adhere to the ERA Code of Practice proving evidence of their commitment to high standards of ethics in relations with clients, candidates, business partners, colleagues and other parties as follows:

• Researchers will adhere to the European data protection laws, also known as EU General Data Protection Regulation GDPR
• Researchers shall only undertake research projects which they feel they are competent to undertake successfully. They will not make false statements about their skills, experience or activities, or about those of their organisation or colleagues, and at all times remain mindful of the scope and limitations of their techniques and capabilities.
• Researchers will always be aware that they are representing their clients. They will at all times seek to ensure they are positively and accurately representing and articulating their client’s employer brand.
• They will not mislead or use false information in order to access information nor claim to represent any actual organisation or company not involved in the research, nor undertake any activity which could damage the reputation of their client.
• Researchers will agree timescales for delivery of the research project at the beginning of each new assignment, ensuring they are able to deliver results in a timely fashion.
• Researchers shall ensure that projects and activities are designed, carried out, reported and documented accurately, transparently and objectively.
• All personal data regarding candidates and clients will be recorded and stored in accordance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation GDPR
• Research work submitted should meet the highest standards of excellence, quality and reliability, and researchers should conduct themselves with respect, honesty and fairness in any dealings.
• Researchers will always respect confidential information entrusted to them by relevant parties.
• Off limits companies will be agreed at the beginning of each research project and every reasonable precaution will be taken to adhere to such agreements during the course of a research project.
• Researchers will not begin research services for a client where there is a conflict of interest to another existing client without notice to all relevant parties involved and will resolve any such conflicts of interest through disclosure or waiver.
• Researchers will always support equal opportunities for all, avoiding prejudicial or pejorative reference to an individual’s race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or to any physical or mental illness or disabilities.