What happens when you report something to Ethics? – Verizon

On today’s edition of Up To Speed we broke down all things related to Ethics. If you’ve ever wondered what happens during an Ethics investigation, look no further: today’s episode featured three guests who helped demystify the process.

We heard from Jim Matteo, Executive Director of Investigations and Protective Intelligence, Kim Porcaro, Director of Employee Relations, and Steve Helvin, Head of Ethics and Legal Investigations, who each play a role in the investigations process depending on the nature of the issue.

Steve stressed that Verizon takes all concerns seriously and when a V Teamer submits a concern they can expect to hear back from an investigative specialist who will work with them to understand what the issue is and who can help answer questions they may have about the investigative process. Depending on the nature of the issue it will go to one of three organizations: Legal, Security or Human Resources.

Here’s an overview of what the process looks like from the moment an employee has a concern through the resolution of the investigation.The key phases of the investigative life cycle are: reporting, triage, investigation, determination of actions and remediation, and closure.

1. There are a number of ways employees can bring forward their concerns: they can go to their management, to their Human Resources Business partner, to Security or to Verizon Ethics. They can be reached by email, through a web portal or through a global phone line that’s available 24×7 – it’s important to note that you can remain anonymous and your report will be confidential.
2. Once the report gets to the right people, the investigation begins. There are a few important things to know about the investigation process :
   • Verizon takes reported matters seriously, that means that the Company is committed to thorough, fair investigations that are focused on seeing all sides of the issue.
   • The investigation will be carried out by a subject matter expert who is independent – their conclusions are going to be the product of an unbiased review of the facts and not by any predetermined views.
   • There are a variety of ways that the investigator may gather facts, for example they could collect information from Company systems and they could interview witnesses. f the allegation is against a specific person, it is important to be fair to that individual and speak with them to get their perspective too.
   • Verizon strictly prohibits retaliation against employees who submit complaints.
3. After the fact gathering is done, the investigator will contact the appropriate members of leadership to explain the outcome. If the concern was substantiated, Verizon is committed to taking appropriate action to address the findings.
4. Once the issue is closed, you will be contacted; there are limits to what can be shared about confidential investigations, but you will receive confirmation that the issue has been addressed.

V Team, rest assured that no matter who you raise a concern to, your issue will get into the right hands and be reviewed by an independent expert who will conduct an objective, fair review. Remember: Verizon has a zero tolerance policy for retaliation and the company encourages you to feel comfortable reporting any concerns you may have to ensure a prosperous workplace.

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