Certification Code of Conduct
Professional standards and ethical guidelines for MAPS™ certified practitioners and organizations committed to M&A excellence.
Note: This is placeholder content for demonstration purposes. Final code of conduct will be developed in consultation with legal experts, industry professionals, and certification authorities.
Purpose & Scope
This Code of Conduct establishes professional and ethical standards for all individuals and organizations holding MAPS™ certification. It ensures the integrity of the certification program and maintains public trust in MAPS credentials.
All certified practitioners agree to uphold these standards as a condition of obtaining and maintaining their certification status. Violations may result in corrective action, probation, or revocation of certification.
This code applies to all activities where MAPS certification is referenced, represented, or utilized, whether in professional, educational, or promotional contexts.
Certification Commitment
Core Principles
Four fundamental principles guide the professional conduct of all MAPS™ certified practitioners.
Professional Integrity
Maintain the highest ethical standards in all M&A activities and certification representations.
Requirements:
- Accurately represent MAPS certification status and scope
- Avoid misrepresentation of credentials or capabilities
- Disclose potential conflicts of interest
- Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information
Competence & Excellence
Demonstrate continuous commitment to professional development and best practices.
Requirements:
- Maintain current knowledge of MAPS framework updates
- Participate in required continuing education
- Apply MAPS methodologies accurately and consistently
- Seek guidance when facing unfamiliar situations
Professional Responsibility
Act responsibly toward clients, colleagues, and the M&A community.
Requirements:
- Provide services within scope of competence
- Respect intellectual property rights
- Support fellow MAPS practitioners
- Contribute to framework improvement when possible
Continuous Learning
Commit to ongoing education and improvement in M&A practices.
Requirements:
- Complete required certification renewals
- Stay current with industry developments
- Share knowledge and best practices appropriately
- Pursue advanced certifications where relevant
Violations & Consequences
Violations are categorized by severity, with appropriate consequences designed to maintain certification integrity.
Minor Violations
Examples Include:
- Late completion of continuing education requirements
- Minor inaccuracies in certification representation
- Delayed reporting of status changes
Consequences:
Moderate Violations
Examples Include:
- Misrepresentation of certification level or scope
- Failure to disclose conflicts of interest
- Inappropriate use of MAPS intellectual property
Consequences:
Severe Violations
Examples Include:
- Fraudulent certification claims
- Breach of confidentiality causing harm
- Unethical business practices in M&A activities
Consequences:
Reporting Violations
Suspected violations of this Code of Conduct should be reported promptly to maintain the integrity of the MAPS™ certification program.
Reports can be submitted confidentially and will be investigated thoroughly and fairly. Retaliation against good-faith reporters is strictly prohibited.
How to Report
Email: conduct@theramseygroup.com
Online: [Secure reporting portal - to be implemented]
Appeals Process
Certified practitioners have the right to appeal disciplinary actions through a fair and transparent process.
Appeals must be submitted within 30 days of notification and include relevant documentation supporting the appeal.
Appeal Steps
- 1. Submit written appeal with supporting documentation
- 2. Independent review panel assessment
- 3. Hearing (if requested and appropriate)
- 4. Final determination and notification
Certification Acknowledgment
By obtaining and maintaining MAPS™ certification, you acknowledge understanding and agreement to abide by this Code of Conduct.