Conflicts of Interest

Employees have an obligation to avoid actual or potential conflicts of interest. Employees must avoid any relationship or activity that might impair, or even appear to impair, their ability to make objective and fair decisions when performing their jobs. Employees must also refrain from activities, investments, or associations that compete with the University, interfere with the employee’s judgment concerning the University’s best interests, or exploits the employee’s position with the University for personal gains. 

Conflicts of interest could arise in the following circumstances:

• Being employed by, or acting as a consultant to, a competitor or potential competitor, supplier or contractor, regardless of the nature of the employment, while employed with Greenville University.

• Hiring or supervising family members or closely related persons.

• Serving as a board member for an outside commercial company or organization.

• Owning or having a substantial interest in a competitor, supplier or contractor.

• Accepting gifts, discounts, favors or services from a customer/potential customer, competitor or supplier, unless equally available to all University employees.

• Being in a position to influence a decision that may result in a personal gain for themselves or for a relative as a result of the University’s business dealings.

If an employee has any influence on transactions involving purchases, contracts, or leases, it is imperative that the employee disclose to their manager or Human Resources as soon as possible the existence of any actual or potential conflict of interest so that safeguards can be established to protect all parties. 

Personal gain may result not only in cases where an employee or relative has a significant ownership in a firm with which the University does business, but also when an employee or relative receives any kickback, bribe, substantial gift, or special consideration as a result of any transaction or business dealings involving the University. 

Employees with a conflict-of-interest question should seek advice from management. Before engaging in any activity, transaction, or relationship that might give rise to a conflict of interest, employees must seek review from their manager or the Human Resource department.