Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
FROM CEO JIM HAGEDORN
Since 1868, ScottsMiracle-Gro has grown from its humble beginnings by building a firm foundation of trust with consumers. Their trust in our brands has made us the world’s leading consumer lawn and garden company and an enterprise our founders never could have envisioned.
We have achieved respect and loyalty in the marketplace because consumers — as well as our partners, suppliers and shareholders — trust us to conduct our business with integrity and respect for all. We earn this trust every day by making the right decisions and taking the right actions — one person at a time. Every associate is obligated to protect the integrity of our business and help to ensure that we leave our Company to the next generation of associates in even better condition than we found it.
To do so, each of us must recognize that ethical behavior is our most important cultural attribute. At ScottsMiracle-Gro, we know that there is no personal or business goal worth compromising our integrity and commitment to ethics. We strive to win, but to win the right way.
Demonstrating and valuing ethical behavior starts with our leaders. Leaders have an especially important role to set a clear example for all associates and to make every effort to assist associates with concerns or problems.
Every associate, regardless of title or seniority, is expected to follow this Code. Do not allow anything — not your competitive instincts, desire to achieve a financial goal, or even a direct order from a superior — to compromise your commitment to acting ethically. This Code does not serve as a substitute for good judgment. It’s not okay to do the wrong thing if your manager or another superior orders you to. You are accountable for your actions even if you’re “just doing what I was told.”
At some point, you might find that you are facing a situation not covered in this Code and are not sure how to act. When in doubt, reach out. Ask your manager or anyone else listed in these pages for guidance, especially if you are concerned about something that does not appear to support our commitment to integrity. You can even raise a concern anonymously. We will not tolerate retaliation against any associate who raises a concern in good faith. We will enforce the Code consistently, regardless of our position within the Company.
Generations of ScottsMiracle-Gro associates before us built a positive reputation and exceptional culture through their words and deeds. Now it’s our turn to carry the banner. Thank you for your commitment to the Company and to upholding the values set forth in this Code.
Jim Hagedorn