In an example of leading from the front, CODA plc, the finance systems specialist which has made a strong play in corporate governance, control and compliance applications has launched its new Corporate Social Responsibility Policy (CSR) and programmes. It says it will formalise client and market involvement in product development, increase recycling, save energy and cut CO2 emissions, as well as promote initiatives to continuously improve the company's reputation as a supplier, employer and member of its local and professional communities.
Following its demerger from CODASciSys plc, CODA an AIM listed company is now able to produce a dedicated policy that reflects its own business needs and specific circumstances. The project to implement the policy is headed by Dave Belmont, CODA's Company Secretary, who was recently named Company Secretary of the Year by the ICSA. His appointment reflects CODA's belief that Corporate Responsibility is a core business strategy rather than a 'window dressing' approach favoured by many businesses, and Mr Belmont and his team are implementing firm measurement criteria for each of the initiatives outlined in the policy. In time, suppliers and some other business partners will be asked to comply with aspects of the policy, and new suppliers will be expected to provide detailed information about their policies, plus data that affect CODA's measurement criteria.
Unsurprisingly, CODA, which recently introduced a new version of its CODA-Control product line to help manage Corporate Responsibility programmes, will use its own software solutions to support its CSR initiative.
