The WP Community Collective

The WP Community Collective Conflict of Interest Policy

Purpose of this Policy

The WP Community Collective (“the WPCC”) is committed to maintaining high ethical standards, transparency, and integrity in all its operations. This Conflict of Interest Policy (“Policy”) is designed to ensure that all decisions made on behalf of the WPCC are free from actual or perceived conflicts of interest and to protect the integrity of the organization’s mission.

The WPCC is dedicated to fostering a culture of openness, fairness, and trust. Adherence to this Policy is essential to maintaining the integrity and credibility of our work and our shared commitment to the WordPress open source project.

Scope of this Policy

This Policy applies to all individuals who participate as decision-makers within the WPCC community, including but not limited to board members, staff, contractors, contributors, members, and volunteers (“Covered Individuals”).

Definition of Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest exists when a Covered Individual’s personal, professional, financial, or other interests could interfere with their ability to make impartial decisions in the best interest of the WPCC and its members. Conflicts of interest may arise directly or indirectly and include, but are not limited to:

  1. Financial Interests: A financial benefit received by the individual or their immediate family from a decision or transaction involving the WPCC.
  2. Personal Relationships: Relationships that may influence or appear to influence impartial decision-making.
  3. Competing Loyalties: Activities, roles, or commitments outside the WPCC that may conflict with the organization’s mission or activities.
  4. Self-Dealing: Using one’s role within the WPCC to benefit oneself, a relative, or a business associate.

Disclosure of Conflicts

All Covered Individuals are required to agree to:

  1. Disclosure: Disclose any actual, perceived, or potential conflicts of interest to the WPCC Board of Directors prior to engaging in the activity where there may be a conflict.
  2. Recusal: Those with a confirmed actual Conflict of Interest must recuse themselves from discussions, decisions, or organizational activities related to the conflict.

Managing Conflicts of Interest

Upon disclosure of a potential conflict of Interest, the WPCC will take the following steps:

  1. Evaluation: The Board or designated committee will evaluate the disclosed potential conflict of interest and determine whether it constitutes an actual or perceived conflict of interest.
  2. Resolution: Upon determination, the Board or designated committee will take the following action:
    • Actual Conflict of Interest: If an actual conflict of interest is identified, the Board or designated committee will notify the individual and the community, and require the individual to recuse themselves from participating in discussions, decisions, or organizational activities related to the conflict. In some cases, the Board may determine that additional actions are necessary to resolve the conflict, such as delegating authority or modifying roles.
    • Perceived Conflict of Interest: If a perceived conflict of interest is identified, the Board or designated committee will notify the individual and the community, and document the situation in organizational records. The individual may be permitted to continue their role, provided the situation is closely monitored and, if necessary, additional measures may be taken to ensure transparency and fairness.
    • No Conflict of Interest: If no conflict of interest is identified, the Board or designated committee will notify the individual and document the determination in the organization’s records.
  3. Documentation: All potential conflicts, determination, and subsequent actions taken will be documented in the organization’s records.

Prohibited Actions

Covered Individuals must not:

  1. Use WPCC Resources: Use WPCC’s funds, resources, or reputation for direct personal gain.
  2. Engage with Undisclosed Relationships: Participate in decisions involving organizations, individuals, or entities with which they have undisclosed relationships that could create conflicts.

Accountability and Enforcement

Any Covered Individual found to have knowingly violated this Policy may be subject to corrective action, up to and including removal from their role or termination of their relationship with the WPCC. All enforcement actions will be documented.

Reporting Concerns

Members of the WPCC community may report suspected conflicts of interest or violations of this Policy to the WPCC Board. Reports may be submitted via the Code of Conduct reporting form.

Policy Review

This Policy will be reviewed and updated as necessary by the WPCC Board to ensure it remains effective and aligned with the organization’s mission and values. Modifications and updates will be documented.

  • December 16, 2024 – Published