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Home About the Academy of Management Ethics Code of Ethics Annual Meeting Code of Conduct

Academy of Management Code of Conduct

Introduction

The Academy of Management (AOM) is committed to fostering a professional, inclusive, and respectful environment at the Annual Meeting and at all AOM events. All participants are required to conduct themselves professionally, adhering to the AOM Code of Ethics and AOM Code of Conduct to ensure an environment in which all individuals feel safe and valued while learning, networking and collaborating.

This Code of Conduct applies to all members, employees, and volunteers of AOM, including but not limited to officers, committee members, presenters, organizers, exhibitors, sponsors, attendees, guests, and event staff participating in the AOM Annual Meeting and at AOM events. All participants engaged in AOM events shall comply with this Code.

Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited:

  • Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, physical appearance, body size, or any other characteristic protected under federal or state law.
  • Sexual harassment, such as unwelcome advances, stalking, or unsolicited physical or electronic contact that creates an objectively hostile environment.
  • Abusive, lewd, or threatening behavior, including bullying or coercion based on a position of influence within AOM.
  • Conduct that creates a hostile environment, including sexually charged communications or interactions.
  • Situations that may give the perception of sexual harassment, such as holding job interviews in inappropriate locations (e.g., hotel rooms).
  • Physical violence or threats of violence.
  • Any behavior deemed abusive, coercive, or disruptive to the professional environment and purpose of the event. 
  • Using AOM-contracted event spaces for unscheduled or unsanctioned programming, organized gatherings, or instructional activities that are not part of the official AOM program or otherwise approved.

Independent Expression at or Near AOM Events

AOM does not sponsor or coordinate independent expression, including activities such as protests or demonstrations. Any such activity is conducted independently and is not affiliated with, endorsed, or sanctioned by AOM, and may not imply AOM endorsement or use AOM’s name, logos, or branding without authorization. This section does not limit academic inquiry or scholarly discussion that is part of the official AOM program.

Independent expression must take place outside AOM contracted event spaces. Members who choose to engage in independent expression near event venues are expected to do so lawfully and in a manner that does not disrupt scheduled programming or endanger others. Such activities must not interfere with access to event facilities, including entryways or exits, compromise member safety, breach rules established by event venues, or involve the use of sound amplification (e.g., bullhorns, megaphones, portable speakers) or other tactics intended to disrupt conference activities. Event venues may impose additional restrictions related to signage, affixing materials to surfaces, or entering contracted spaces without authorization. AOM does not have oversight for independent expression occurring in public areas outside contracted event spaces; individuals engaging in expressive activity are expected to understand and comply with all applicable laws, venue rules, and local regulations.

Reporting Misconduct

AOM encourages the reporting of any such incidents regardless of the offender’s identity or position. Individuals who experience or witness such behavior should:

  • Inform the offender that their behavior is unwelcome, if they feel comfortable doing so.
  • Contact local law enforcement if their physical safety is at risk
  • Report the incident immediately to AOM’s Ombuds Committee at [email protected], to the AOM Past President (Ethics Committee Chair), and to the AOM staff Chief Operating Officer. A written report may be required.

All reports will be addressed to uphold the integrity of our community. This may include interviews with parties involved and witnesses. AOM will maintain confidentiality to the extent consistent with addressing the matter. The investigation process is not legally binding in any external proceedings.

Consequences of Misconduct

If misconduct at the Annual Meeting or AOM event occurs or is found, appropriate actions may include:

  • A private reprimand.
  • Notification and intervention by AOM officers or peers to resolve the situation.
  • Expulsion from the event and/or Annual Meeting without warning or refund.
  • Filing of a formal AOM Ethics complaint which may result in:
    • Conditions placed upon or bans from future attendance at AOM events.
    • Removal from AOM leadership positions.
    • Suspension or revocation of AOM membership.
    • Notification to the individual’s employer in cases of serious misconduct.
    • Other sanctions deemed appropriate by the Ethics Adjudication Committee.
  • Any other sanction allowable under AOM’s Bylaws that are commensurate with the violation.

False Reporting

Knowingly making a false accusation pertaining to prohibited conduct, or providing false information in an investigation may result in consequences for misconduct above. However, complaints made in good faith, even if unsubstantiated, will not be considered false accusations.

Retaliation

Retaliation against an individual for reporting misconduct or participating in an investigation is strictly prohibited. Any acts of retaliation should be reported immediately to the AOM Ombuds Committee and will be addressed promptly.