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The SHFM Standards of Conduct Affirm the Basic Policies of Ethical Conduct for All Members, EVENT ATTENDEES and Staff of the Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management

The foundation of the Standards of Conduct consists of the basic standards of business as well as personal conduct: honesty and candor in our activities; avoidance of conflicts between personal interests and the interests of the Society; maintenance of our reputation and avoidance of the activities which reflect adversely on the Society and its members; demonstration of a zero tolerance of any form of harassment including sexual harassment or harassment with respect to gender, race, age, religion, disability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, perceived gender/sexual identity, education, or level of position; and exercise integrity in dealing with the assets and resources of the Society.

All members therefore agree to the following:

• Support the goals and objectives of the Society in order to reflect the highest standards of the hospitality and foodservice profession
• Foster a spirit of unity and cohesiveness of purpose in all SHFM sponsored activities
• Promote fair and equitable treatment for all persons employed or affiliated with the hospitality and foodservice industry
• Exhibit the highest standards of moral and professional conduct at all SHFM activities
• Refrain, in connection with SHFM events and activities and communications, from conduct towards others that is abusive, bullying, humiliating, demeaning, or degrading; unwelcome physical contact; and discrimination on the basis of gender, race, age, religion, disability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, perceived gender/sexual identity, education, level of position, or any other characteristic protected by law
• Accept responsibility for the conduct and demeanor of their guests at SHFM functions
• Promote an awareness of the SHFM philosophy of thoroughly professional management and conduct
• Honor the trust placed in them while holding an elected or appointed position in the Society.

Furthermore, use of the SHFM member roster by members as a mailing list for promotion of products or services is permitted. However, all SHFM members are responsible for protecting the right to privacy of other members and are asked not to share the membership roster with individuals or organizations outside SHFM.

OPERATOR MEMBERS

Active members are, by definition, client liaisons, contract hospitality and foodservice operators and executives, integrated facility managers and self-operators.

By joining SHFM, the Operator member agrees to abide by the SHFM Standards of Conduct, acknowledging his/her responsibility to represent the association in a manner that reflects positively on the Society, its membership, and the foodservice industry.

SUPPLIER MEMBERS

Supplier members are, by definition, suppliers of products and/or services to SHFM’s Operator membership. Supplier members recognize the mutual benefit to both classes in fostering an environment for idea exchange and better understanding of each other’s needs.

By joining SHFM, the Supplier member agrees to abide by the SHFM Standards of Conduct, acknowledging his/her responsibility to represent the association in a manner that reflects positively on the Society, its membership, and the hospitality and foodservice industry.

Additionally, Supplier members agree to interact with Operator members at SHFM functions primarily to become better acquainted and to learn from one another.

Overt soliciting of business is not acceptable at SHFM functions.

Participation in SHFM programs is an opportunity for a Supplier member to offer his/her expertise and knowledge in a particular area.

The purpose should be to transmit “general” knowledge rather than to present a sales presentation for a specific branded product or service.

Process Regarding SHFM Events and Activities

Any person/company who has been subjected to, or personally witnessed, objectionable conduct as described herein in connection with an SHFM event or activity should report such conduct to an SHFM staff person in attendance, or, after an event has concluded, to the SHFM Executive Director or SHFM Executive Committee. No person may be subjected to retaliation of any kind for reporting in good faith, either as a target or as a witness, objectionable conduct.

If objectionable conduct is reported while an event is ongoing, SHFM may take preliminary action, including directing a person to leave the event, pending resolution of the complaint. Permanent sanctions may include, but are not limited to, prohibiting a person from attending future SHFM events or participating in SHFM activities, and suspension or even termination of membership.