In general, compliance means conforming to a rule. The term also describes a risk management function developed in the banking sector which is increasingly used also in other business sectors.  Compliance aims at designing all of a business’ operative and administrative processes in a manner that the infringement of internal rules and legal provisions of any kind is possibly avoided. To achieve this aim, corporate structures and processes, internal rules and regulations must be established, management and employees must be trained accordingly and necessary measures to control compliance must be taken.

Compliance is an "affordable must" for every business, regardless of its size or purpose. Thus, compliance is not only a topic for listed, worldwide operating groups, but also and especially for small and medium-sized companies. Especially municipal companies are in the eye of the public. In these businesses, lawful and ethical conduct and compliance are paid particular attention to. Above all in the sensitive areas of sponsoring/marketing, procurement and social activities, for municipal businesses, such as municipal utilities, there is considerable need for appropriate organization and training measures in order to protect companies and their staff from financial and reputation disadvantages, particularly as a result of investigations launched by prosecutors and supervisory authorities.

Based on an interdisciplinary approach, we advise our clients on all legal and organisational issues relating to compliance. In our advice we also integrate the communication aspects, which are to be considered in every compliance activity. On the basis of a status quo analysis, we develop overall concepts for the introduction of a compliance organisation tailored to the needs of the respective companies and assist the companies in the implementation of these concepts. Furthermore, we also provide support with regard to selected aspects in the context of compliance environment. This applies for instance to the drafting of internal corporate guidelines for the areas of procurement, marketing, sponsoring and social activities (invitations, presents).

Our experts have an extensive experience in setting up compliance management systems for utilities and in training of management and staff on all legal issues concerning compliance (in particular: criminal law, competition law, employment law).

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact: Dr. Ines Zenke (Berlin) and Dr. Ralf Schäfer (Cologne).