New entrants to international business face heightened risk of bribery and corruption, says forensic specialist
• Exeter: 11 November, 8.30am - Thistle Exeter Rougemont Hotel, Queen Street, Exeter, EX4 3SP
Businesses which operate overseas, and particularly new entrants to international markets, are frequently more exposed to bribery and corruption, compared to those operating within national borders, according to David Alexander, partner in the forensic accounting team at Smith & Williamson.
Since bribery and corruption are at the high end of corporate offences, they can attract custodial sentences, as recently demonstrated in the courts. And where the authorities suspect mal-practice of this type, investigations from the Serious Fraud Office and massive disruption for a business can follow – even if the business and employees are subsequently found to be entirely innocent.
Against this backdrop, David Alexander will be speaking at the UKTI’s ‘ExploreExport’ roadshow and highlight key steps to help businesses which operate overseas, or thinking about doing so, protect themselves from bribery and corruption. He will also suggest a checklist against which managers can assess how their organisation measures up.
There are still a few places left for the seminar. For further information or to book your place, visit www.exploreexport.ukti.gov.uk. Alternatively, if people cannot attend but would like a copy of the seminar notes, these can be provided free of charge from jo.franklin@smith.williamson.co.uk