Code of Professional & Ethical Conduct
Introduction
The British Institute of Recruiters stands as the UK’s principal professional body for both In-House and Agency Recruiters, setting the gold standard in the field of recruitment.
All members are encouraged to be advocates of promoting best practice within the profession and must comply with the standards set out in the Code of Professional & Ethical Conduct. The Code forms part of the Certification & Membership Terms and Conditions and is binding on all certified members.
The Code is framed around 7 Fundamental Principles:
1. Professional Behaviour
2. Uphold the Rule of Law
3. Integrity and Honesty
4. Objectivity
5. Equality, Inclusivity, Respect, and Fairness
6. Professional Competence and Due Care
7. Privacy, Confidentiality and Trust
Download the full Code of Professional & Ethical Conduct (PDF) — Version 4.0, 22/06/2026. The PDF is the definitive version of the Code.
Where the Institute receives a complaint which shows that a member has breached any of the standards set out in the Code, that complaint will be investigated under the Complaints Procedure and may result in the matter being referred to the disciplinary body.
The BIOR Recruitment Certification Scheme was developed with input from the UK’s then three state enforcement bodies for employment rights — the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate (EAS), the HMRC National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage enforcement team, and the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA) — whose functions are now consolidated in the Fair Work Agency, the single enforcement body launched in April 2026.
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About the British Institute of Recruiters
The British Institute of Recruiters BIOR is the professional body for staffing & recruitment. BIOR is the highest standard mark in recruitment providing certification for agencies and individuals. To become a 'British Institute' the BIOR required approval of the Secretary of State which is only granted to an organisation that is pre-eminent in its field such as a professional body of the highest standing.