Risk planning and mitigation within a company are essential, as is compliance with ethical and anti-corruption standards, since these ensure corporate security and responsible operations. According to an article published in 2023 by the consulting firm BDO, Integrated Risk Management goes beyond a process of identifying and mitigating risks, encompassing aspects such as corporate culture, corporate governance, and strategic decision-making. In this regard, having effective risk management enables the establishment of guidelines and the identification of potential challenges to strengthen the management of an organizational ethical culture.

The context in which we operate in Peru is particularly challenging. Therefore, companies must work both internally and externally to ensure sound corporate governance and the security we provide at every step. Establishing strong internal policies and guidelines is the first step, as it paves the way for initiatives that put them into practice, such as the creation of compliance programs and the attainment of certifications and ISO standards.

In line with this, obtaining relevant certifications in the area of anti-bribery conduct makes the work carried out tangible through third-party validation. This helps endorse that the practices implemented by the business are appropriate, validates the company’s commitment, and strengthens trust with key stakeholders. For example, ISO 37001 certification supports the implementation of an effective anti-bribery management system, while ISO 37301 validates dedication to compliance and business ethics. However, companies must understand that the true relevance of these certifications does not lie solely in obtaining them, but in their ability to generate real and positive impact.

In the construction sector, increasingly robust policies and guidelines are being adopted to prevent corruption and foster a deeply rooted ethical culture. While we are convinced this is key, people are even more important, as they are the pillars of a strong and sustainable ethical culture. For this reason, within the company we work on cultural principles that include ethical matters, enabling an environment where such behaviors are continuously encouraged. The goal is for individuals not to make decisions and act out of obligation, but out of conviction to do the right thing and contribute to building a better society. This leads to the development of initiatives in which employees are actively involved—not only by following policies, but also by promoting them among others and within their teams, for example, through programs such as “Ethical Agents.”

Effective risk management not only helps prevent unethical behavior, but also contributes to building and maintaining a strong ethical culture throughout the organization that impacts the value chain. As an example from the construction industry, companies like ours actively collaborate with Alliance for Integrity, a platform that offers practical solutions to strengthen the compliance capabilities of companies and their supply chains. One aspect observed at the supplier level is ensuring that those who go through selection processes share and respect the same ethical values as the company that hires them, thereby ensuring a responsible value chain.

Proactive identification of ethical risks makes it possible to implement preventive policies, develop training programs, and cultivate an organizational environment that values integrity. Risk management thus becomes a key driver in building an ethical culture rooted in the company’s identity, contributing not only to the mitigation of potential negative consequences but also to the promotion of trust, accountability, and long-term sustainable success.