HUBER+SUHNER has embedded sustainability within its organisation. A well-defined governance structure with clearly assigned responsibilities enables effective monitoring of the progress in implementing the Group's sustainability strategy.
The Board of Directors (BoD) convenes at least five times annually. During at least two of these meetings, the Executive Group Management (EGM) or Head of Global Sustainability reports on relevant sustainability-related matters. The BoD approves and oversees the implementation of the company’s sustainability strategy and targets, as well as the company’s Non-financial Report.
The CEO is responsible for defining and overseeing the implementation of the company’s sustainability strategy. The Head of Global Sustainability reports to the members of the extended EGM including the CEO on the progress in implementing the company’s strategic targets. Sustainability-related objectives are a component of the extended EGM’s variable compensation package.
The Head of Global Sustainability is responsible for proposing and implementing the company’s sustainability strategy. In this role, the Head of Global Sustainability directs a global network of local environmental and sustainability managers who are responsible for coordinating and implementing the sustainability strategy at the company’s various sites. Together with this network, the Head of Global Sustainability also monitors relevant sustainability compliance obligations and assesses sustainability-related risks as well as the implementation of the respective risk response strategy and measures.
The Global Product Compliance team at HUBER+SUHNER ensures products meet all relevant regulations and directives. They update internal processes, maintain a current material compliance database, and provide training and support for compliance-related queries from global stakeholders and customers.
The Global Sourcing team is responsible for engaging with suppliers on sustainability-related matters. The Group's due diligence policy complies with the requirements set forth in the Swiss Ordinance on Due Diligence and Transparency in relation to Minerals and Metals from Conflict-Affected Areas and Child Labour (DDTrO).
The Head of Global Operations directs a global network of local operation managers. In collaboration with the Head of Global Sustainability, they oversee the development and implementation of a comprehensive global climate transition plan. Additionally, the Head of Global Operations guides the assessment of physical climate-related risks and their integration into local business continuity plans.
The Group Compliance Officer, supported by the General Counsel, is responsible for continuously improving the compliance programme. The Group Compliance Officer can veto any business transactions that threaten the Group’s reputation due to violations of the Code of responsible business conduct, but the final execution decision rests with the CEO. Twice a year, the Group Compliance Officer meets with area compliance officers, who ensure compliance across the Group. These officers work with country managing directors and line managers to effectively implement control measures, which are integrated into the HUBER+SUHNER management system.
To address cases of misconduct, HUBER+SUHNER provides employees and external stakeholders with a grievance mechanism. Reports are handled by the Whistleblowing Steering Committee, comprised of two area compliance officers (legal compliance and human rights/labour) and a dedicated professional in the Corporate Communications team. The committee is the liaison to the independent operator of the platform as well as the person who filed the report and internal stakeholders. The number of reports filed as well as the number of substantiated violations of the Code of responsible business conduct are reported to the BoD annually.