Our Commitment
At StepUpp Ventures, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive, respectful, and productive environment for everyone. Organisations that prioritise their employees' wellbeing and promote diversity and inclusion are not only better places to work, but also outperform those who don't. We are our most productive selves when we feel respected, included and supported, and when we sense that our colleagues are transparent and empathetic with us.
Creating this environment requires everyone to lead by example. Therefore, this Code of Conduct enables colleagues to evaluate their own and each other's behaviour against a set of criteria that we believe will continue to nurture a productive, safe and comfortable environment. We ask that anyone joining our community – regardless of seniority, role or affiliation – understands and accepts our shared goals and values in order to maintain a safe, productive and positive community for all.
This Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines which outlines inclusive actions and behaviours, as well as things we do and don't do to create a better environment for everyone – as individuals and as productive members of the StepUpp Ventures family.
What It Entails
StepUpp Ventures is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, skin colour, sex, gender identity or expression, age, disability (physical or mental), neuro(a)typicality, sexual orientation, and political affiliation.
Our differences are worth celebrating and make us stronger as a community. We will work together to strike the right balance – highlighting what makes us unique without isolating groups or individuals – through inclusive behaviour so that all members of our community thrive.
As members of the StepUpp Ventures community, we agree to follow these behaviour expectations in all professional activities (both offline and online, and within and beyond the office).
Our Values and Expected Behaviours
We Respect Everyone
- We treat all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their background, role, or level of seniority
- We listen actively and give everyone a voice in discussions and decision-making processes
- We acknowledge and value different perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking
- We use inclusive language and avoid assumptions about others
We Foster Collaboration
- We work together constructively to achieve common goals
- We share knowledge, resources, and opportunities openly
- We support each other's professional growth and development
- We celebrate collective achievements and learn from setbacks together
We Communicate Transparently
- We are honest, clear, and direct in our communications
- We provide constructive feedback with empathy and respect
- We address conflicts and disagreements professionally and promptly
- We maintain confidentiality when required and respect privacy
We Act with Integrity
- We are accountable for our actions and decisions
- We admit mistakes and work to correct them
- We act ethically in all business dealings and relationships
- We represent StepUpp Ventures professionally in all contexts
We Embrace Innovation
- We encourage creative thinking and new ideas
- We support calculated risk-taking and learning from failure
- We remain curious and open to change
- We continuously seek to improve our processes and outcomes
Unacceptable Behaviour
The following behaviours are not tolerated within the StepUpp Ventures community:
Harassment and Discrimination
- Discriminatory comments or actions based on protected characteristics
- Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, or other verbal/physical conduct of a sexual nature
- Bullying, intimidation, or threats (verbal, physical, or written)
- Deliberate exclusion or marginalization of individuals or groups
Unprofessional Conduct
- Disruptive behaviour in meetings, events, or workspaces
- Inappropriate use of company resources or information
- Breach of confidentiality or privacy
- Dishonesty or misrepresentation
Digital Conduct
- Cyberbullying or online harassment
- Sharing inappropriate content through company channels
- Violating others' digital privacy or security
- Misusing social media to harm the company or colleagues
Reporting and Resolution
How to Report
If you experience or witness behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, we encourage you to:
- Address it directly (if you feel safe and comfortable doing so)
- Report to your manager or any member of senior leadership
- Contact HR through our confidential reporting channels
- Use our anonymous reporting system available on our internal portal
Our Response
All reports will be:
- Treated seriously and investigated promptly
- Handled with confidentiality and discretion
- Addressed through appropriate corrective measures
- Protected from retaliation
Resolution Process
- Initial Assessment: We will evaluate the situation and determine appropriate next steps
- Investigation: We will conduct a fair and thorough investigation
- Action: We will take appropriate corrective action, which may include coaching, training, formal warnings, or termination
- Follow-up: We will monitor the situation to ensure the behaviour has been corrected
Consequences
Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in:
- Verbal or written warnings
- Mandatory training or coaching
- Probationary periods
- Suspension or termination of employment
- Removal from company events or activities
- Legal action where appropriate
The severity of consequences will depend on the nature and frequency of the violation, taking into account the impact on individuals and the organisation.
Leadership Responsibility
Leaders at StepUpp Ventures have additional responsibilities to:
- Model the behaviour outlined in this Code of Conduct
- Create psychologically safe environments for their teams
- Address violations promptly and fairly
- Support and protect those who report concerns
- Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all activities
Continuous Improvement
This Code of Conduct is a living document that will be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure it remains relevant and effective. We welcome feedback and suggestions from all community members to help us improve our workplace culture.
Application
This Code of Conduct applies to:
- All StepUpp Ventures employees, contractors, and consultants
- Board members and advisors
- Portfolio company interactions
- Company events, conferences, and social gatherings
- Online platforms and social media when representing StepUpp Ventures
- Business travel and off-site activities
Acknowledgment
By joining the StepUpp Ventures community, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. You also commit to helping create and maintain a positive, inclusive environment for everyone.
Questions or Concerns?
If you have questions about this Code of Conduct or need clarification on any policies, please reach out to:
- Your direct manager
- Human Resources
- Any member of the leadership team
Contact Information: StepUpp Ventures
101 Cavendish Street, W1W 6XH London
www.stepuppventures.com
