Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Learn more about TE Connectivity's Office of the Ombudsman
What does the TE Ombudsman do?
The TE Ombudsman is an independent and impartial resource for employees, suppliers, customers, shareholders and others to confidentially raise concerns and report issues related to ethics and compliance. The Ombudsman reports to the Audit Committee of TE’s Board of Directors and is responsible for ensuring that all issues raised are resolved timely, fairly, and at the proper level.
What kinds of issues does the Ombudsman usually handle?
Many types of issues are reported through our reporting channels: accounting and auditing matters, ethics and compliance issues, suspected violations of TE policies or our Guide to Ethical Conduct, and concerns about misconduct or mistreatment.
What are the ConcernLINE and ConcernNET?
The ConcernLINE is a toll-free telephone hotline that you can use to report a concern about compliance, ethics, or the other types of issues handled by the TE Office of the Ombudsman. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The ConcernNET is a web-based platform for reporting a concern using the internet. Every call to the ConcernLINE and submission to the ConcernNET is received by an external representative who, in local language, documents the details being reported and provides a case number and personal identification number (PIN) that you can use when following up.
Do I have to give my name when I report something?
In most parts of the world, you don't have to give your name when you report something. You can keep track of your case and receive and respond to communications from the investigator anonymously, if you choose, by using your case and PIN numbers. In some countries, local law prohibits anonymous reporting of these types of issues. In those countries, if you call the ConcernLINE or submit a report through the ConcernNET, you will be told of the requirement to give your name. In all cases, we treat our reporting and investigation process as confidentially as we can, to protect the identities of those who report, of those accused of wrongdoing, and those who become involved in investigations.
When should I use the ConcernLINE or ConcernNET?
While talking with your local supervisor, manager or HR is often the best approach, there may be situations in which you might prefer to report through an independent resource or remain anonymous. You can choose to report through the ConcernLINE or ConcernNET in any of the following situations:
- When you have a question or want to express a concern relating to the TE Guide to Ethical Conduct or the policies that are discussed in the Guide.
- When you wish to report a suspected violation of the Guide, TE policies, or any applicable law.
- When you have previously raised a concern and did not get a response.
- When you believe that management may be involved in the issue or situation you are reporting, or you feel that management may not be impartial, and you are unsure where to go to get your question answered or your concern addressed.
- When you are having difficulty making a judgment call relating to a compliance or ethics issue.
- When you believe that there has been a breach of personal information (other IT issues such as a computer virus or a phishing email should be reported to the TEIS Service Desk).
When Should I NOT use the ConcernLINE or ConcernNET?
The ConcernLINE and ConcernNET are not substitutes for direct communications with your local supervisor, manager or HR advisor to address concerns about normal operating procedures or issues that can be more appropriately addressed at the local level. Everyday work issues should still be brought directly to your supervisor, manager or Human Resources.
Will I suffer retaliation for reporting an issue?
TE Connectivity has a Non-Retaliation Policy. Raising concerns helps TE Connectivity identify and resolve problems before they escalate, and all employees are encouraged to speak up and report when they see something that does not seem right. TE Connectivity will not tolerate retaliation against anyone for reporting violations or raising concerns in good faith. If an employee has reported an issue in good faith, that report cannot be the basis for denial of benefits, termination, demotion, suspension, threats, harassment, discrimination, or other unfavorable treatment. All instances of suspected retaliation should be reported to the Office of the Ombudsman.
I know of a circumstance that should be reported but I do not want to be involved. How can I make a report anonymously?
You may use the ConcernNET or call the ConcernLINE anonymously, subject to local law. Give as many details as possible so that the situation can be investigated.
When I see that a situation is wrong, isn’t it better to talk to my co-worker rather than calling the ConcernLINE?
You have the option to talk to your supervisor or manager, local HR, a member of TE law department, call the ConcernLINE or use the ConcernNET when you have some issues or concerns to report. If your concern relates to something that can be adequately resolved through discussions with your co-worker, your supervisor or manager, local HR, or another local resource, you do not have to call the ConcernLINE or use the ConcernNET. The ConcernLINE and ConcernNET provide a way to address situations which cannot be appropriately resolved through these direct discussions, or if you feel uncomfortable discussing the situation directly with someone in your local site.
