bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Corporate social responsibility and corporate performance: the case of Italian SMEs
Authors: Longo Mariolina , Mura Matteo , Bonoli Alessandra 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThe research has the following objectives: to contribute to a clear understanding of the present social commitment of small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), analyzing the characteristics of CSR in them; making it easier to identify, develop and spread the instruments suitable to the SME specific demands in the creation of social value.Design/methodology/approachSurveys a set of SMEs, belonging to different industrial fields and operating on the Italian territory in the region Emilia Romagna.FindingsOn the basis of the analysis carried out in the paper, it has been possible to identify the principal managerial instruments used by the companies for the creation of social value and to identify those companies (approximately 63 percent of the reference sample) that adopt an integrated social responsibility approach. The majority of SMEs analysed have therefore perceived the social responsibility concept and welcome it, not only because they have moral or ethical reasons for doing so, but also because they maintain that this contributes to the growth of the company's own value.Practical implicationsAs there is no integrated approach, there exists no model in the literature that summarises the expectations of the stakeholders and the associated categories of value for these expectations. The “grid of values” developed in the present study constitutes a first level of such a model and a useful reference for the development of future research.Originality/valueIn the opinion of the authors, two aspects characterize the contribution of the present research methodology: the integrated approach towards all the interlocutors; and the analysis and development of “value classes” to measure the creation of social value.
The relationship of ethical climate to deviant workplace behaviour
Authors: Appelbaum Steven H. , Deguire Kyle J. , Lay Mathieu 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to perform a literature review of the existing body of empirically‐based studies relating to the causes and implications of how the ethical climate of a company ultimately affects the incidence of workplace deviance.Design/methodology/approachThe article examines the issue of ethical contexts and climates within organizations, as measured by the Ethical Climate Questionnaire developed in 1987 by Victor and Cullen , and their implications in the daily work lives of participants. The causes of unethical behaviour, including the presence of counter norms, the environment in which a firm operates, and organizational commitment, as well as the manifestation of this behaviour in the form of workplace deviance, are reviewed. Finally, current trends in preventing workplace deviance are investigated, including promoting a strong culture of ethics, and the use of “toxic handlers”, individuals who take it upon themselves to handle the frustrations of fellow employees.FindingsClearly, unethical and deviant behaviour problems are of great concern to organizations, which must take steps to solve them, at the same time as fostering strong positive ethical cultures. Feels that further studies are needed using more definitive and qualitative measurements to learn more about these behaviours.Originality/valueThis article would be useful to those who wish to obtain an overview of the current literature, specifically readers who do not specialize in the subject area.
Corporate social responsibility in Portugal: empirical evidence of corporate behaviour
Authors: Abreu Rute , David Fátima , Crowther David 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to explore corporate social responsibility (CSR) evidence and, especially, the experience and practice of enterprises in Portugal.Design/methodology/approachAs a generally accepted principle, the corporate social report is a communication and measurement object. But there are limitations concerning availability and accuracy of the data that could create constraints and diminish the scope of this report. Thus, the methodology for this paper is subdivided into two different aspects of research: First, an individual perspective about each enterprise studied and second, a general perspective applied to CSR in Portugal. The sample used was based on the survey developed by the Instituto ETHOS, applied to a sample of enterprises carried out in Portugal, during the year 2002. It was published by Exame in a special edition – “The guide of socially responsible enterprises”. So, the authors analyze and present the results that are of interest in the area of CSR activity. In order to do so the authors develop a principal component analysis to sort and group the original data.FindingsThe preliminary analysis generated three components of CSR: the external influence (CSR external), the market influence (CSR market) and the operative influence (CSR operative) of the enterprises in Portugal.Originality/valueThis research shows cultural differences and helps to highlight the importance of more research in this area in the newly expanded European Community. It also highlights the relationship between CSR activity and corporate image and performance.
The enactment of corporate governance guidelines: an empirical examination
Authors: Rubach Michael , Picou Armand 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the stock price reaction to the first announcement in SEC filings of the enactment of corporate governance guidelines. Agency and management theories suggest the enactment of guidelines should create value for the owners.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses an event study methodology on a sample of 141 firms.FindingsThe research finds only a few firms exhibited a significant reaction. Overall, the data were not significant. Searching for first‐ or late‐mover advantages was also unsuccessful. However, the increased enactment of guidelines (bandwagon effect) supports first order imitation possibly due to the board interlocks found. The results indicate two possible explanations. First, SEC filings may not be a strong signal for the overall market resulting in a potentially unrealized stock value transferred to those few who act on the signal. Second, the value of the guidelines may be unclear to investors. In either case, more public disclosure (i.e. greater transparency) for the adoption of corporate governance guidelines may resolve the issue.Originality/valueThis paper provides valuable information on the value of corporate governance guidelines.
Stakeholder relationships: the dialogue of engagement
Authors: Foster David , Jonker Jan 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThis paper seeks to analyse the nature of the communication process involving stakeholders in a working relationship with organisations. While most research has been undertaken to identify who or what these stakeholders are and what the patterns of relationships look like, very little attention has been given to the ways in which the organisation actually engages with them.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on qualitative research conducted into a controversial issue concerning protected area management in Victoria, Australia, which was conducted within a framework built around Habermas' concept of communicative action.FindingsThe lessons learned from what Stake would call an “instrumental” case study, provided the insight to clarify what form organisational communication with stakeholders should take if it is to result in significant and positive outcomes. It is argued that the basis of any constructive engagement between an organisation and its stakeholders should be communication that is linked to mutual understanding as the basis of agreeable action. Finally the challenges of these findings for modern organisations are addressed.Originality/valueThis paper provides useful information on the nature of the communication process involving stakeholders in a working relationship with organisations.
The complex relation between director independence and board effectiveness
Authors: Van den Berghe L.A.A. , Baelden Tom 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThroughout the world, reform initiatives have been set up to fix perceived and actual corporate governance shortcomings. One of the proposed remedies has been to improve the independence of the board of directors. The main purpose of this paper is to examine the issue of independence as one element to improve board effectiveness. In doing this, the focus is mainly on the monitoring role, and to a lesser extent on the strategic role of the board of directors.Design/methodology/approachA comparison of the definitions of independence provided by the corporate governance codes and recommendations reveals that they approach the concept of independence mainly from a formal point of view, where independence equals being in a position free of any possible conflicts of interest. It is stated that this approach does not capture all the aspects of independence and that independence cannot be an end in itself. Instead of emphasising independence, the paper hypothesises that, to ensure board effectiveness, a board of directors is needed which, among other things, vigilantly monitors the company and pursues an objective decision‐making process.FindingsWithout neglecting the importance of other elements in achieving this two‐fold goal, the paper highlights the need for directors to have the “right attitude”. To achieve this, three conditions have to be jointly fulfilled: each director should have the ability as well as the willingness to be a critical thinker, with an independent mind, however, the environment should also be such as to facilitate directors to display this attitude.Originality/valueThese three factors – ability, willingness and environment – are discussed in depth and integrated into a tentative framework for evaluating the chance that a given director will display this attitude. As such, this paper is of value both for practitioners as academics and will mostly affect their understanding of the concept of independence.
Antecedents and consequences of failed governance: the Enron example
Authors: Downes Meredith , Russ Gail S. 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the demise of Enron, one of the most curious aspects of which was that on the surface it appeared to be thriving, giving no one any cause to question the company's governance structures.Design/methodology/approachThe paper provides a detailed analysis of the composition of Enron's board of directors, demonstrating how directly observable traits are not the sole determinants of effective corporate governance.FindingsThe paper finds that collectively, the board's qualifications are less overt, and even more elusive are the ethics and morals that drive the governance process.Originality/valueThis case illustrates how ethics and morals are necessary, but that none is sufficient, to deter poor governance, and also underscores the far‐reaching impact of Enron's moral deficiencies.
Retrieving corporate policy: managing minority dissent
Authors: Davis Paul 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThe purpose of the research was to discover to what extent franchisees supported the direction the company was taking as determined by the board of directors. Specifically, franchisees were invited to comment on corporate policies, initiatives and values that they were expected to implement and embody in their daily business practices.Design/methodology/approachThis article presents the findings from an international study conducted on the world's largest retail bakery franchisor which operates some 670 bakeries (January 2004) throughout Australia and New Zealand.FindingsIn many key areas of company policy and values, a considerable proportion of franchisees appeared to be strongly opposed to, or ignorant of, what the corporate body was promoting as business strategy. With respect to environmental initiatives, many franchisees are not supporting corporate policy to a very significant degree and some major initiatives seem destined to fail unless effective intervention is enacted. A proportion of franchisees are not implementing many core policies designed to promote good employee relations and develop staff potential. There were also some concerns regarding franchisee attitudes towards community involvement.Originality/valueOutlined here are the distinct characteristics of franchise organizations that can combine to frustrate corporate governance. The survey findings as they relate to the company's policy initiatives and organizational values are discussed, along with recommendations for developing more effective franchisor‐franchisee relationships.
Corporate governance in the USA and Europe: they are closer than you might think
Authors: Payne Andros 
Published: January 2010

PurposeAims to provide an insightful viewpoint on the growing similarity of corporate governance for companies in the USA and Europe and to provide corporate leaders with a framework for anticipating corporate governance changes in order to avoid risks and maximize enterprise value.Design/methodology/approachLikely patterns of corporate governance changes are derived through the examination of the underlying factors impacting corporate governance in the USA and Europe and matching these with multiple corporate governance events or changes in the marketplace.FindingsCorporate governance in the USA and Europe is becoming more similar even though the underlying drivers for convergence are different in Europe and the USA.Research limitations/implicationsConclusions are based on a limited number of anecdotal observations and are not empirically substantiated.Practical implicationsProvides a useful framework for understanding the likely development of corporate governance in the USA and Europe, thereby helping corporate leaders to better anticipate opportunities and risks.Originality/valueThis paper identifies an important pattern in changes to corporate governance which has hereto received little attention in the business and academic press.
Global sports organisations and their governance
Authors: Forster John 
Published: January 2010

PurposeTo identify the organisations that provide global governance within the sports industry, to discuss their role, and to suggest that they have self‐governance problems due to both their evolution and the massive commercialisation of sport of recent decades.Design/methodology/approachAn empirical‐based argument is conducted. Standing at the apex of a hierarchy of national governing bodies and playing organisations, global sports organisations (GSOs) are defined and classified in terms of their governance functions, their commonalities and differences and their interconnections described and analysed. The GSOs for soccer, the Olympics and athletics are used as illustrative cases. Deficiencies in the small sports governance literature are identified. It is argued how the GSOs have maintained their authority as governance organisations despite being private organisations. Hirschman's “Voice, exit and loyalty” model is offered as a partial theoretical interpretation of their situation.FindingsAlthough one of the GSOs' original major functions of formalising international sport is now complete, they have retained not only their sport governance monopolies and authority but also the original structures designed for amateur sport. This creates problems when the governance monopoly can be used as a revenue device.Originality/valueSport is an important part of global culture and an industry worth hundreds of billions of dollars where accusations of corruption are common but global governance is little examined. The GSOs, present‐day commercial roles and enormous revenues create unresolved governance problems and these are described.
Executive incentive pay strategies in entrepreneurial UK initial public offering companies: an empirical study
Authors: Allcock Deborah , Pass Christopher 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to use a sample of UK entrepreneurial initial public offering (IPO) companies to investigate whether they change their compensation strategies as they undertake the crucial transformation of the business from private to public status.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses the agency perspective to underpin an examination of the changes within the compensation packages of companies at the stage of the initial public offering, particularly with regard to the use of executive director incentive schemes, and compares this to “best practice” guidelines issued within the UK.FindingsThe paper discovers that even though incentive schemes are adopted, the majority are unconditional and requiring only an improvement in share price and the executive to remain employed in order for gains to be made. The general finding is that before IPO most companies did not have an incentive pay scheme in place, and those that did, operated unconditional option schemes. However, after IPO most companies introduced an incentive pay scheme, but the majority were unconditional rather than conditional (i.e. schemes requiring executives to meet pre‐determined performance criteria – as recommended by “best practice” guidelines).Originality/valueThe paper exposes that, contrary to “best practice” guidelines and regulations, many of these schemes reward executives unconditionally with the only factor being them remaining in employment over the vesting period. Despite “best practice” and regulations, firms still appear to be defensive and protect the executives from rigorous scrutiny by shareholders.
Directors' remuneration, firm's performance and corporate governance in Malaysia among distressed companies
Authors: Nahar Abdullah Shamsul 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the extent to which firm's performance, the structure of the board of directors and ownership determine directors' remuneration in Malaysia among distressed firms.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses publicly available data from a sample of 86 distressed firms and matched 86 non‐distressed firms for 2001 financial year.FindingsThe findings for the full sample show that directors' remuneration is not associated with firm's profitability, as measured by ROA. A negative and significant association is observed between directors' remuneration and lagged ROA. With regard to corporate governance, board independence and the extent of non‐executive directors' interests are found to have negative influence on directors' remuneration. In addition, findings also reveal directors' remuneration is positively associated with firm's growth and size. In sub‐sample analyses, a strong negative relation is observed between ROA and directors' remuneration for healthy sub‐sample.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research on this area could examine period after the adoption of the Malaysian Code by the Bursa Malaysia in 2001. Further, interviews with directors and managers about the need to link remuneration and performance could be carried out.Practical implicationsThere is a need for companies to link remuneration with performance, which this paper found to be lacking in practice.Originality/valueThe contribution of this paper is its examination of directors' remuneration among distressed firms. Findings of this paper would be useful to both regulatory bodies and practitioners.
Corporate social responsibility: what role for law? Some aspects of law and CSR
Authors: Buhmann Karin 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to discuss the role that law plays for corporate social responsibility (CSR) in substance, action and reporting, including whether CSR functions as informal law.Design/methodology/approachThe theoretical point of departure is based in legal science. Through a discussion of various contexts of CSR in which law and legal standards feature, the article questions the conception that CSR is to do “more than the law requires”. CSR is discussed with the triple bottom line as a point of departure, focussing on social (esp. labour and human rights) and environmental dimensions.FindingsIt is argued that CSR functions as informal law, and that important principles of law function as part of a general set of values that guide much action on CSR. Furthermore, it is argued that aspects of law in the abstract as well as in the statutory sense and as self‐regulation influence the substance, implementation and communication of CSR, and that the current normative regime of CSR in terms of demands on multinational corporations may constitute pre‐formal law.Originality/valueThrough its discussion, observations and examples of the role played in CSR by law in the abstract as well as the statutory sense, by international, supranational and national soft and hard law and documents, and by public regulation as well as corporate self‐regulation, the paper is of value to corporate managers, public regulators, NGOs and individuals with an interest in CSR, including as an aspect of corporate governance.
Illusions of compliance and governance
Authors: Laufer William S. 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThis article aims to place recent corporate governance reforms in the historical context of the good corporate citizenship movement that began in the US in the mid‐1990s and came to an abrupt end in 2002 when the most recent spate of corporate scandals emerged. It explores what the apparent failure of this movement portends for the recently‐enacted governance reforms.Design/methodology/approachThe paper engages in a policy analysis of regulatory reform.FindingsAfter offering the tale of corporate governance, a critical take on current reforms, the paper finds the skeptic's and pessimist's account of corporate good citizenship movement to be most helpful in explaining the illusory nature of corporate reforms and the resilience of the regulatory status quo.Originality/valueThe paper is a critical analysis of corporate governance reforms.
Beyond public relations: bringing the rule of law to corporate codes of conduct in the global economy
Authors: Collingsworth Terry 
Published: January 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the impact of a US law, called Alien Tort Statute (ATS), on the overseas operations of multinational corporations with regard to human rights abuses. The law has the potential of creating substantial financial liabilities and operational risks for the multinational corporations (MNCs) by allowing foreign citizens to bring cases in the US courts for acts committed in a foreign country.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reviews the relevant case law and the decisions of the US highest court in outlining the expanding scope of corporate culpability and financial liability.FindingsThe paper undertakes a careful critique of the arguments made by the MNCs as to the scope and reach of the law. It concludes that these arguments are not tenable in terms of MNCs' own professed commitment to protecting human rights. It also finds that the law's intent as interpreted in various decisions of the US federal courts has led to further clarity and specificity as to obligations of the MNCs.Originality/valueMNCs must take concrete steps to ensure that their overseas operations are not implicated in human rights abuses. Specific approaches are suggested to comply with the law.