HR Toolkit


HR Policies & Employment Legislation

Sample Policies on Common HR Topics

Conflict of interest

Conflict of interest policies address situations and circumstances in which an employee's personal interests are - or can appear to be - in conflict with the organization's interest.

There are many different definitions of conflict of interest. Often, definitions focus on opportunities an employee may have to use their position in the organization to their personal or private advantage or to the advantage of friends or family members.

Your policy needs to have a clear statement defining conflict of interest that suits your organization's purposes. It should also assign responsibility for identifying and resolving actual and potential conflicts.

While some policies do not spell out the consequences for an employee if a conflict cannot be resolved, others specify that failure to resolve a conflict of interest will result in discipline or termination.

Sample policies

Conflict of Interest - United Way of the Alberta Capital Region (PDF - 36KB)

  • Covers both employees and contractors
  • Includes purpose, philosophy, responsibilities and guidelines
  • Gives the President ultimate responsibility for resolving each situation individually

Conflict of Interest - Community Living Upper Ottawa Valley (PDF - 45KB)

  • Describes the policy and procedures for employees and board members
  • Includes examples of conflict of interest
  • Assigns responsibilities for identifying and resolving conflicts
  • States possible disciplinary action (including termination)

Conflict of Interest Policy - National Organization (PDF - 53KB)

  • Defines key terms
  • Covers outside employment, gifts and various other possible relationships
  • Includes an agreement that employees sign: Appendix A - Conflict of Interest Agreement

Appendix A Conflict of Interest Agreement - National Organization (PDF - 29KB)

  • Includes an agreement that employees sign as part of the Conflict of Interest Policy
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