The Ethisphere Institute is a research-based think-tank that investigates business ethics, sustainability practices and corruption around the world. Dedicated to honoring corporations with a conscience and blowing the whistle on businesses that are simply “in it to win it,” Ethisphere strives to help CEOs dominate their markets while at the same time creating sustainable competitive strategies through better business practices and corporate citizenship. 

When it came time for Ethisphere to rank the World’s Most Ethical Companies, they had their work cut out for them. They were, however, able to identify 100 global businesses that exemplified the Institute’s motto of “Good. Smart. Business. Profit.” Among these corporations stood one automaker - Ford Motor Company.

Now in its fourth year ranking the most ethical companies around the world, Ethisphere looks for businesses that truly excel in every aspect of the selection criteria. First, a methodology committee of world-class attorneys, government officials, professors and organization leaders conduct a forum to help Ethisphere create a fair scoring and evaluation system. Then, after sorting through dozens upon dozens of applications and considering research gathered throughout the previous year, Ethisphere lists its semi-finalists. These companies are given a grueling survey about their ethics and compliance programs, as well as their governance and corporate responsibility policies. Last, Ethisphere does an in-depth analysis of the semi-finalists and names the winners based on the following categories: corporate citizenship and responsibility; corporate governance; industry and executive leadership; legal, regulatory and reputation records; internal systems and ethics compliance programs; and innovations that contribute to the public’s well-being.

The honor places Ford among 100 companies in 36 industries that have set the gold standard for their markets. Other 2010 U.S. winners include Google, American Express, Patagonia and Campbell Soup Company. Alex Brigham, Executive Director of the Ethisphere Institute, praises Ford’s practices and ability to stand out in the ranking’s most competitive year. “Ford’s promotion of a sound ethical environment shines within its industry and shows a clear understanding that operating under the highest standards for business behavior goes beyond goodwill and lip service and is intimately linked to performance and profitability.”

Although U.S. news reports may be filled with countless allegations of business fraud, money laundering and various workplace lawsuits, it’s good to know that some CEOs still have their moral instincts intact. At Ford Motor Company, the award is a testament to years of innovative policies and an encouragement to further improve their corporate system for future generations.

For more information, visit www.ford.com/about-ford/news-announcements/press-releases/press-releases-detail/pr-ford-motor-company-recognized-as-32236. For a complete list of the 2010 World’s Most Ethical Companies, visit www.ethisphere.com/wme-2010.