The only way is ethics for Tech Data

Distie appoints Jean-Paul Durand as first-ever chief ethics and compliance officer following accounts probe

Distie giant Tech Data has appointed its first chief ethics and compliance officer in an effort to ensure the firm stays on the straight and narrow.

Jean-Paul Durand will take on the newly created role, with responsibility for seeing that the company behaves ethically across all its global operations.

He will lead Tech Data's global ethics and compliance programme which includes the company's policies and procedures aimed at combating fraud. He will also encourage ethical behaviour and foster a commitment to complying with the law and the distie's code of conduct.

Durand will report directly to Tech Data's general counsel David Vetter and the firm's Audit Committee.

Tech Data recently wrapped up a 10-month accounting probe which resulted in $27m (£16.2m) being slashed from its previously reported net profits after discovering "accounting improprieties" in its UK business.

Vetter said that Durand's appointment cements the firm's commitment to ethical practices.

"I am confident that Jean-Paul and his team will help drive high ethical standards throughout our company's global operations," he said.

"Integrity is one of Tech Data's core values, and making the right choices are always in the best interests of our company, our business partners, and our shareholders.

"Tech Data is committed to sound corporate governance and ethical business practices, and this appointment reflects our continued commitment to legally and ethically conducting business around the world."