Culture and ethical decision-making are foundational to Pfizer’s purpose. We are committed to fostering a culture of integrity throughout the company.
Integrity is built into our Company Values: Courage, Excellence, Equity, and Joy
All colleagues are responsible for acting with integrity in all they do, and our leaders are accountable for proactive risk management and prioritizing a culture of integrity over business results. We incorporate ethics and business integrity into internal performance evaluations, which are designed to enhance colleague accountability, including leadership performance with integrity. We measure our integrity culture and speak-up environment annually through colleague surveys.
Building an Integrity-Driven Culture
At Pfizer, the company’s commitment to integrity is evident in its core values: Courage, Excellence, Equity, and Joy. These values lay the groundwork for both personal accountability and organizational success. Every colleague at Pfizer is expected to operate under the guiding principle of integrity, promoting an environment where ethical decision-making is a shared responsibility. Leaders play a pivotal role, tasked not only with driving business success but ensuring that their teams uphold ethical standards.
Regular internal performance evaluations serve as a mechanism for reinforcing this commitment to ethics. These evaluations not only foster accountability amongst colleagues but also ensure that leadership is assessed on their integrity as part of their performance metrics.
Emphasizing the Speak-Up Culture
Courage is more than just a value at Pfizer; it’s a part of the very fabric that enables a speak-up culture. Employees are encouraged to voice any concerns or report misconduct without fear of retaliation. The company has established stringent whistleblower policies, including an Open Door policy that actively promotes transparency and accountability.
Retaliation against anyone who seeks advice, raises a concern, or provides information during an investigation is strictly prohibited. Pfizer’s leadership takes all policy infringements seriously, enforcing disciplinary actions when needed—up to and including termination for violations.
Multiple Channels for Raising Concerns
To support its speak-up culture, Pfizer offers various channels through which employees and external partners can ask questions or raise compliance concerns. One notable option is the Pfizer Compliance Direct, where individuals can easily contact compliance personnel through:
- Email: Contact Pfizer Compliance
- Mail: Pfizer Compliance, 66 Hudson Boulevard East, New York, NY 10001-2192
- Phone: 1-212-733-3026
- Secure Fax: 1-917-464-7736
The Compliance Helpline
Another key resource is the Compliance Helpline, which serves as a confidential avenue for reporting issues or seeking advice. Operated by specially trained third-party representatives, this helpline ensures that colleagues, suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders have access to assistance 24/7. The use of anonymity is respected wherever permitted by law, offering an extra layer of protection for those who wish to report concerns.
For anyone outside of the U.S. and Puerto Rico, helpline numbers can be accessed online or on request. This approach underscores Pfizer’s global commitment to ethical practices, transcending borders and legal frameworks.
The Office of the Ombuds
In addition to compliance channels, Pfizer supports its workforce through the Office of the Ombuds, an informal and independent resource designed to aid colleagues with workplace issues. The Ombuds provides a safe space for discussion, helping to articulate concerns or navigate complex scenarios. Key functions of this office include:
- Offering information on relevant policies and procedures
- Coaching and guiding colleagues towards resolution
- Ensuring confidentiality, protecting anonymity in all discussions
- Assisting in identifying potential solutions
- Connecting colleagues to additional resources within Pfizer
Conversations with the Ombuds remain confidential unless there is an imminent risk of serious harm, ensuring that employees feel safe seeking help.
Culture Measurement and Continuous Improvement
Pfizer recognizes the importance of consistently measuring the effectiveness of its integrity culture. Annual surveys gauge employee perceptions regarding the organization’s ethical climate and the speak-up environment. The feedback collected is vital for redirecting leadership communication and improving training programs, all aimed at enhancing the integrity culture within the company.
By integrating ethics into its core practices and policies, Pfizer not only fulfills its organizational goals but also builds a workplace where integrity thrives, contributing to a company culture that values transparency and accountability at every level.