The Hartford is committed to an inclusive work environment that encourages the development of personal and professional relationships in the workplace provided these relationships do not interfere with the work performance of either an individual or the operations of the department or result in a real or perceived conflict of interest.
Employees who engage in close personal relationships should be aware of their professional responsibilities and are responsible for assuring that the relationship does not raise concerns about favoritism, bias, ethics and/or conflicts of interest. If such a relationship exists or develops, it must be disclosed.
The policy addresses the following:
- Reporting Relationships, Conflict of Interest and Opportunity for Collusion. Individuals in close personal relationships may not work in positions where there is a direct, indirect, or perceived reporting relationship between the individuals or where one individual could influence the other’s terms or conditions of employment. Additionally, individuals in close personal relationships may not work in positions where there is an actual, potential or perceived conflict of interest or opportunity for collusion.
- Defining Close Personal Relationships. At The Hartford, close personal relationships include, but are not limited to, relatives, social relationships inclusive of dating, intimate relationships, close friendships, and/or economic relationships inclusive of roommates or landlords.
Applying the Policy
- Reporting Obligation. Employees must promptly disclose any new, existing, or potential close personal relationship including those that result from an organizational change, to leadership and/or Employee Relations.
- Attaining Resolution. Employees may be asked to engage with Employee Relations to reach a resolution acceptable to The Hartford. Resolution may include transferring or assigning one individual to another department or location. Failure to disclose may result in disciplinary action.
Scope
This policy is applicable for all employees of The Hartford and its participating subsidiaries who are based at U.S. locations. Non-U.S. units shall also apply the intent and provisions of this policy, unless local law requires otherwise.
Revised: 3/31/2020