What is the primary purpose of a compliance and ethics committee?

The primary purpose of a compliance and ethics committee is to provide a safe place to report concerns and ensure proper conduct. In organizational settings, this committee plays a crucial role in fostering an ethical culture and ensuring that employees have avenues to voice their concerns about potential violations of laws, regulations, or internal policies without fear of retaliation. It also promotes adherence to legal and ethical standards, guiding training and communication efforts related to compliance.

The function of such a committee goes beyond just regulatory compliance; it also focuses on establishing a framework for ethical decision-making within the organization. By creating a safe environment for reporting and discussing ethical concerns, the committee helps mitigate risks and enhance an organization's integrity. In contrast, other choices focus on areas outside the core mission of compliance and ethics, such as marketing, financial audits, or recruitment, which do not align with the specific objectives and responsibilities of a compliance and ethics committee.