FLESA Code of Conduct
Guiding the Standards of Trusted Fractional Leadership
1. Introduction
At FLESA, integrity is not optional, it’s foundational.
As a trusted body certifying Fractional Leaders, we uphold a shared Code of Conduct that ensures all FLESA-credentialed professionals embody the highest standards of character, capability, and contribution. This Playbook outlines the behaviors, expectations, and principles required to maintain the trust of clients, peers, and the broader ecosystem.
2. Purpose of the Code
To establish a clear, consistent ethical framework for all FLESA-certified leaders.
To protect the credibility and reputation of the FLESA brand and community.
To ensure alignment with FLESA’s mission: elevating the standard of fractional leadership in South Africa and beyond.
3. Core Values
All FLESA-credentialed professionals must consistently demonstrate:
Integrity: Do what is right, even when unseen.
Excellence: Deliver exceptional value with accountability.
Respect: Honor diverse views, clients, and collaborators.
Transparency: Communicate openly, honestly, and in good faith.
Service: Prioritize client outcomes, not personal gain.
Confidentiality: Safeguard sensitive information at all times.
4. Professional Conduct Standards
4.1 Ethical Behavior
Do not misrepresent your credentials, experience, or results.
Avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential bias or prior relationship.
Never accept work beyond your competency without appropriate collaboration or disclosure.
4.2 Client Engagement
Act in the best interest of your client while maintaining professional independence.
Set clear terms of engagement: scope, deliverables, and fees.
Respect client confidentiality and protect intellectual property.
Never “poach” employees, partners, or suppliers from client organizations.
4.3 Collaboration with Other Leaders
Engage other FLESA members with professional courtesy and fairness.
Share knowledge generously and support the success of the ecosystem.
Refrain from defamation, slander, or unethical competition within the network.
4.4 Representation of FLESA
Use the FLESA credential in alignment with approved guidelines.
Never use the FLESA brand or platform for personal or political gain.
Promptly report any misuse of the FLESA name, systems, or verification materials.
5. Reporting Misconduct
FLESA encourages a culture of accountability. Any member or stakeholder may report violations of this Code by submitting a written complaint to ethics@flesa.org.
Anonymous reports will be reviewed, but named submissions allow for a more transparent process.
All reports are handled confidentially and in accordance with FLESA’s Disciplinary Procedure.
6. Disciplinary Procedure
Upon receipt of a complaint:
1. Initial Review by the Ethics Committee.
2. Notification to the respondent for comment.
3. Investigation involving both parties and supporting evidence.
4. Outcome may include:
No action (unfounded complaint)
Warning or corrective guidance
Temporary suspension of FLESA credentials
Permanent revocation of FLESA certification
All outcomes are recorded and, in serious cases, may be made public in the interest of ecosystem trust.
7. Annual Reaffirmation
To maintain certification, all FLESA members are required to reaffirm their commitment to this Code of Conduct annually during their renewal process.
8. Living the Standard
This Code Of Conduct is not a box-ticking exercise. It's a commitment to leading with integrity, representing the future of fractional leadership, and reinforcing the trust that clients place in verified, credentialed professionals.
Endorsed by:
FLESA Ethics & Standards Board
“Leadership is not a badge. It’s a behaviour.”