In the automotive industry, adherence to ethical standards is not just a legal obligation but a cornerstone of sustainable business practice. The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), enacted in 1977, serves as a global benchmark in combating bribery and corruption. Despite its longstanding presence, some executives express concerns about the complexities of compliance. However, as highlighted in a recent Industry Week article, the emphasis should be on unwavering adherence rather than apprehension.

The article underscores that ethical behavior transcends mere legal compliance; it fosters a positive corporate reputation, enhances customer loyalty, and cultivates a constructive work environment. Companies like Toyota have experienced firsthand the repercussions of ethical lapses, facing significant production setbacks due to scandals involving emission certifications and recalls.

For auto suppliers, implementing a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery is paramount. This involves establishing a comprehensive code of ethics, conducting regular audits, and ensuring transparent communication across all organizational levels. Such proactive measures not only mitigate legal risks but also contribute to long-term business viability.

In today’s global market, ethical compliance is integral to a company’s success and reputation. Auto suppliers must prioritize ethical practices to navigate the complexities of international business effectively.

For further guidance on establishing robust ethical compliance frameworks, please contact our project managers at pjr@pjr.com.

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, Environment, Health, Safety, and Sustainability (EHS&S) professionals are stepping beyond traditional compliance roles to become pivotal drivers of corporate sustainability and competitiveness. Nicole Wilkinson, executive director of corporate health, safety, and environment at CVS Health and the newly appointed chair of the National Association for Environment, Health & Safety, and Sustainability Management (NAEM), emphasizes this shift. She notes that EHS&S professionals are not only reporting progress to their companies’ boards but are also actively participating in board discussions, guiding corporate strategies, and enhancing business resilience

One significant area where EHS&S professionals are making an impact is in promoting total worker health and wellness. Beyond ensuring physical safety, they are implementing programs that address overall health, including mindfulness, fitness, and stress management initiatives. Collaborations with human resources departments have led to recognition programs that foster a safety-first culture. By creating psychologically safe environments, organizations encourage open communication, leading to improved employee engagement and safer outcomes.

Another critical focus is the prevention and management of workplace violence. In response to increasing risks, EHS&S professionals are developing code of conduct policies and de-escalation training programs. These initiatives are essential in cultivating safe work environments and addressing emerging state-level regulations.

Furthermore, EHS&S professionals are leveraging advanced software management solutions and technology applications to deliver value. By utilizing sophisticated metrics and dashboards, they assist operational partners in tracking compliance, achieving operational excellence, and promoting a robust EHS culture. Management Information Systems have become critical tools in meeting both internal and external reporting requirements, reflecting the profession’s evolution in the digital age.

This expanded role of EHS&S professionals underscores the importance of integrating sustainability into core business strategies. By moving beyond mere compliance, organizations can enhance competitiveness, foster employee well-being, and contribute positively to environmental and societal goals. For businesses aiming to align with these evolving standards and achieve recognized certifications, engaging with experienced certification bodies is a crucial step. To explore how your organization can benefit from such certifications, contact our project managers at pjr@pjr.com for more information.

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) has become integral to various sectors, enhancing efficiency and innovation. However, this rapid integration brings forth ethical considerations that necessitate a framework for responsible AI development and deployment. Responsible AI refers to the practice of designing and utilizing AI systems in ways that align with societal values, ensuring benefits while minimizing potential negative consequences. This encompasses addressing issues such as bias, transparency, and privacy, aiming to create trustworthy AI systems that are reliable, fair, and aligned with human values.

To navigate these ethical challenges, international standards play a pivotal role. The ISO/IEC 42001 standard, introduced over a year ago, serves as a global AI management framework assisting organizations in managing AI responsibly. It balances innovation with governance, guiding entities to handle AI’s risks and opportunities effectively. Adherence to such standards not only prepares organizations for future regulations but also emphasizes fundamentals like robust data management and comprehensive risk assessment.

The development of these standards is overseen by committees such as the ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 42, dedicated to artificial intelligence. Established in 2018, this subcommittee focuses on creating international standards, technical reports, and specifications within the AI domain. Their work ensures a cohesive approach to AI ethics, addressing challenges like data quality, bias, and risk management.

For organizations aiming to integrate AI responsibly, aligning with these standards is crucial. Certification not only demonstrates a commitment to ethical practices but also builds trust among stakeholders and clients. Perry Johnson Registrars offers expertise in guiding businesses through the certification process, ensuring adherence to these international standards. Working with PJR can help your organization navigate the complexities of AI ethics, fostering responsible innovation and sustainable growth.

For more information on becoming certified and aligning your AI practices with international standards, please contact our project managers at pjr@pjr.com.

Nicole Wilkinson, the newly appointed chair of the National Association for Environment, Health & Safety, and Sustainability Management (NAEM), emphasizes that business competitiveness and the planet’s declining condition have heightened the importance of sustainability and corporate social responsibility. She observes that EHS&S professionals are increasingly reporting progress to their companies’ Boards of Directors, often serving on these boards themselves, thereby guiding and leading corporate strategies.

Wilkinson identifies several emerging opportunities within the evolving EHS&S profession:

1. Advancing Total Worker Health and Wellness: Beyond ensuring physical safety, EHS&S professionals are now promoting overall health and wellness. This includes implementing programs such as mindfulness, fitness, and stretching exercises, collaborating with HR to foster a safety-first culture, and adapting leadership approaches to remote or hybrid work environments.
2. Addressing Workplace Violence and Supporting Corporate Security: In response to increased risks of workplace violence and social unrest, EHS&S programs are evolving to include code of conduct policies and de-escalation training, aligning with emerging state-level regulations to maintain a safe work environment.
3. Implementing Advanced Software Management Solutions: EHS&S professionals are leveraging cutting-edge software and technology applications to enhance operational excellence and promote a strong EHS culture. These tools are crucial for meeting both internal and external reporting requirements and demands.

These developments signify a shift in the EHS&S field towards a more integrated and proactive approach, positioning professionals as key contributors to their organizations’ sustainability and overall success.

Contact PJR at pjr@pjr.com to learn more about how our certification services can help you establish and maintain the highest standards of quality and compliance.

As technology continues to revolutionize the healthcare industry, more tech companies are entering the market with innovative solutions. However, the transition into healthcare is not without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is the need for a strong quality culture. In healthcare, maintaining high standards of safety and efficacy is paramount, and companies that prioritize quality culture are better equipped to meet these demands.

A robust quality culture ensures that all employees are aligned with the organization’s commitment to safety, compliance, and continuous improvement. This cultural foundation helps tech companies navigate the stringent regulatory landscape of healthcare, which includes rigorous requirements from agencies like the FDA. By embedding quality into every aspect of product development and operational processes, tech entrants can build trust with stakeholders and ensure patient safety.

Moreover, fostering a culture of quality encourages proactive problem-solving and innovation. Employees are empowered to identify risks early and implement effective solutions, reducing the likelihood of costly recalls or compliance issues. This approach not only enhances product safety and effectiveness but also boosts operational efficiency and brand reputation.

For tech companies looking to make a successful impact in healthcare, investing in quality culture is crucial. It requires leadership commitment, employee training, and the integration of comprehensive quality management systems (QMS). Certifications such as ISO 13485, which focuses on medical device quality management, can be invaluable in demonstrating compliance and commitment to quality.

If your tech company is exploring opportunities in the healthcare sector, ensuring a strong quality culture is essential. Contact PJR at pjr@pjr.com to learn more about how our certification services can help you establish and maintain the highest standards of quality and compliance.

Lean manufacturing has been a staple of operational excellence for decades, helping companies reduce waste, optimize efficiency, and enhance overall productivity. Yet, despite its proven benefits, some managers still struggle to implement Lean effectively. Here are some common pitfalls and how organizations can overcome them:

1. Misunderstanding Lean’s Purpose
Lean is often mistaken as a cost-cutting tool rather than a comprehensive system for continuous improvement. When leaders focus solely on reducing headcount instead of streamlining processes, they undermine the long-term benefits of Lean. Companies should emphasize that Lean is about improving value delivery, not just cutting costs.

2. Failure to Engage Employees
Successful Lean initiatives rely on frontline workers who are deeply involved in day-to-day operations. However, managers who impose top-down directives without empowering employees to contribute ideas will struggle to gain buy-in. Creating a culture where employees are encouraged to identify inefficiencies and propose solutions is essential.

3. Lack of Leadership Commitment
For Lean to take root, leadership must do more than just endorse it—they must actively participate in the process. Without clear commitment from management, Lean efforts risk becoming superficial, with little long-term impact. Leaders should lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.

4. Overlooking the Cultural Shift
Lean is not just a methodology—it’s a mindset. Organizations that treat Lean as a one-time project rather than a cultural transformation often struggle to sustain progress. Establishing Lean as a core company value requires consistent training, communication, and reinforcement.

5. Measuring the Wrong Metrics
Many managers focus on output metrics rather than process improvements. While bottom-line results are important, Lean success is better measured through cycle time reductions, defect rates, and customer satisfaction improvements. A shift towards process-oriented KPIs can lead to more meaningful results.

Organizations looking to overcome these challenges should invest in training, foster a culture of employee involvement, and ensure leadership remains actively engaged in Lean principles. Sustainable success comes from viewing Lean as an ongoing journey rather than a quick-fix solution. For organizations seeking guidance on implementing Lean and other continuous improvement strategies, Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR) offers expert auditing and certification services. Contact a project manager at pjr@pjr.com to learn more.

Accountability is a critical component of any successful organization. Without it, teams struggle to meet goals, communication breaks down, and overall efficiency suffers. A strong culture of accountability ensures that employees take responsibility for their actions, work collaboratively, and continuously strive for improvement. Accountability starts with leadership and requires clear expectations, trust, and follow-through.

One key factor in fostering accountability is setting clear expectations. Employees need to understand their roles, responsibilities, and the standards they are expected to uphold. Leaders should communicate these expectations effectively and provide the necessary resources for employees to succeed. Additionally, regular feedback and performance evaluations help reinforce accountability by recognizing achievements and addressing areas for improvement.

Trust is another essential element. Employees are more likely to take ownership of their work when they feel supported by leadership. Creating an environment where employees can admit mistakes, seek guidance, and learn from their experiences encourages accountability without fear of punishment. Leaders who model accountability themselves—by admitting when they are wrong and following through on commitments—set a strong example for their teams.

Organizations that prioritize accountability often see improvements in productivity, employee engagement, and overall quality. Certification to standards like ISO 9001 can further reinforce accountability by establishing structured processes, performance metrics, and continuous improvement initiatives. These frameworks help businesses maintain high standards while fostering a culture where accountability is an everyday practice.

If you are looking to strengthen accountability within your organization and achieve certification to internationally recognized standards, contact a PJR project manager today at pjr@pjr.com.

As we progress through 2025, organizations are encountering significant challenges that impact employee engagement and overall performance. Recent findings highlight a concerning trend termed “the Great Detachment,” where employees feel increasingly disconnected from their organization’s mission and undervalued in their roles. This detachment has led to a notable decline in employee engagement, reaching an 11-year low in 2024. Despite a stable job market, many employees are actively seeking new opportunities, indicating a pressing need for leaders to re-engage their workforce.

Employee well-being has also reached a record low, with only 50% of U.S. employees reporting that they are thriving in their overall lives. This decline in well-being correlates with increased absenteeism due to health issues and a higher propensity for employees to seek alternative employment. To counteract this trend, leaders must prioritize fostering a culture that genuinely supports employee well-being, going beyond traditional efforts to ensure sustainable performance.

Additionally, there is a significant disparity between managers’ perceptions of their leadership and employees’ experiences. While 50% of managers believe they provide weekly feedback, only 20% of employees concur. Similarly, gaps exist in recognition for good work. Bridging these gaps requires managers to establish consistent coaching practices that offer meaningful feedback and acknowledge quality work, thereby enhancing employee satisfaction and commitment.

In light of these challenges, organizations should consider implementing structured management systems, such as ISO 9001, to improve internal processes and communication. These frameworks can help align organizational objectives with employee expectations, fostering a more engaged and productive workforce.

For more information on how certification can benefit your organization, please contact our project managers at pjr@pjr.com.

As we enter the first quarter of 2025, businesses are exhibiting cautious optimism regarding their supply chains. According to the Lehigh Business Supply Chain Risk Management Index (LRMI), the overall risk perception has slightly decreased from 67.48 in Q4 2024 to 66.18 in Q1 2025. This marginal decline suggests that while companies are less apprehensive than before, significant concerns remain.

Cybersecurity and data breaches continue to be the foremost concern, topping the risk index at 76.97. Despite a slight reduction in anxiety compared to early 2024, the consensus among supply chain professionals is that cyber incidents are inevitable. One respondent emphasized that experiencing a cyber or data incident is not a matter of “if” but “when” for most businesses. The ongoing data and cyber warfare among nation-states, corporations, and other entities underscores the critical need for robust data security measures and strong partnerships.

Government intervention risk remains a significant factor, with an index reading of 74.16. The recent presidential election has introduced a mix of optimism and apprehension among businesses. Some anticipate a decrease in risk due to expected deregulation under the new administration, while others are concerned about potential increases in tariffs and changes in immigration policies that could exacerbate labor shortages.

Supplier risk has notably increased, moving up two spots from the previous quarter to an index of 74.16. The anticipation of new tariffs is expected to stretch supplier capabilities as companies adjust to evolving conditions. To mitigate these challenges, businesses are focusing on supplier diversification and fostering strong relationships with their suppliers. However, there is skepticism about consumers’ willingness to accept substitutes for products or components that may become unavailable due to supply chain disruptions.

Economic risk has seen a significant decline, dropping from 77.91 in Q4 2024 to 67.98 in Q1 2025. This decrease may be attributed to recent interest rate cuts and the anticipated economic policies of the new administration. Nonetheless, potential labor shortages, tariff implementations, and immigration policy changes continue to pose threats to economic stability.

In light of these persistent supply chain challenges, it is imperative for businesses to adopt proactive risk management strategies. Implementing robust cybersecurity measures, staying informed about government policy changes, and diversifying supplier networks are crucial steps in building resilient supply chains. For organizations seeking to enhance their supply chain robustness and ensure compliance with industry standards, contacting a project manager at Perry Johnson Registrars (PJR) can provide valuable guidance.

Reach out to us at pjr@pjr.com to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your certification and supply chain management goals.

Operational efficiency is a cornerstone of success in any business. Waste—whether in materials, time, or resources—impacts productivity, customer satisfaction, and profitability. Here are five actionable strategies for reducing waste in your processes, enabling organizations to achieve sustainable growth and maintain a competitive edge.

One key strategy is embracing lean principles, which focus on identifying and eliminating non-value-adding activities. Lean methodologies such as 5S, Kaizen, and value stream mapping are powerful tools that streamline workflows, reduce redundancy, and optimize resources. By systematically removing inefficiencies, businesses can foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Another important tip is the adoption of technology and automation. Automating repetitive tasks not only reduces errors but also enhances speed and consistency in production. Technologies like IoT and AI provide actionable insights by monitoring processes in real-time, helping organizations to detect and resolve inefficiencies before they escalate.

Lastly, leaders recommend establishing measurable goals and tracking progress. Using key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor waste reduction efforts keeps teams aligned and accountable. Regular assessments ensure that strategies remain effective and adaptable to changing circumstances.

To maximize these strategies, partnering with a certification body like Perry Johnson Registrars can bolster your organization’s waste reduction efforts. By aligning with internationally recognized standards such as ISO 9001 for quality management, businesses can embed efficiency into their processes and drive continuous improvement.

For more information on how ISO 9001 certification can support your goals, contact our project managers at pjr@pjr.com today.