Code of Conduct of Judges at The National Cyber Awards 2024
The National Cyber Awards (“Event”) celebrates excellence and innovation in the field of cybersecurity. To ensure a fair and transparent judging process and to maximise the potential for recognition of outstanding achievements, judges are required to adhere to the code of conduct.
This code has been produced as a guide for judges of the The National Cyber Awards Awards and to provide a formal statement of how seriously we view our work. We believe that the integrity of our judging community is exemplary and as such expect all to follow this code of conduct.
This code is in place to protect the integrity of the The National Cyber Awards judging process, providing confirmation that all judges are working to a fair, transparent, and robust judging process. All The National Cyber Awards judges will be required to read and agree to the following code of conduct when applying for the role.
Any case of breach of this code of conduct will be considered by the Awards Steering Group (ASG). Sanctions may include complete removal from the judging role or discounting of individual results for a category. Matters reported under this code may also result in action against an entrant. In case of any dispute, the final arbiters will be The National Cyber Awards.
Code of Conduct
Impartiality and Fairness:
Judges must approach their role with impartiality and fairness, evaluating nominees solely on the merit of their work or achievements.
They shall refrain from favoritism, bias, or prejudice towards any nominee or category.
Confidentiality:
Judges must maintain the confidentiality of the judging process, including discussions, evaluations, and voting outcomes.
They shall not disclose any confidential information related to nominees or deliberations without proper authorization.
Conflict of Interest:
Judges shall disclose any conflicts of interest that may arise from personal or professional relationships with nominees, sponsors, or organisers.
They must recuse themselves from judging categories or nominees with which they have a direct or perceived conflict of interest.
Transparency and Accountability:
Judges should adhere to transparent and accountable judging procedures, ensuring that decisions are based on established criteria and standards.
They shall be prepared to explain and justify their evaluations and selections when required.
Expertise and Competence:
Judges should possess relevant expertise, knowledge, and experience in the field or industry related to the awards ceremony.
They must demonstrate competence in evaluating nominees’ work or achievements based on established criteria and industry standards.
Professional Conduct:
Judges shall conduct themselves professionally at all times, maintaining decorum, respect, and civility in their interactions with fellow judges, nominees, organisers, and attendees.
They shall refrain from engaging in any conduct that may undermine the integrity or reputation of the awards ceremony or its organisers.
Independence:
Judges must exercise independent judgement in their evaluations and decisions, free from external pressures, influences, or inducements.
They shall not allow personal preferences, affiliations, or external considerations to influence their judgments.
Ethical Standards:
Judges shall uphold high ethical standards, avoiding any actions or behaviours that may compromise their integrity, impartiality, or credibility.
They must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines governing the awards ceremony and the judging process.
Respect for Diversity and Inclusion:
Judges should consider and respect diversity in perspectives, backgrounds, and approaches among nominees.
They shall ensure that the judging process promotes inclusivity and equitable recognition of achievements across various demographics and communities.
Feedback and Improvement:
Judges should provide constructive feedback to nominees when appropriate, offering insights and suggestions for improvement.
They shall be open to feedback from organisers, fellow judges, and stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness and fairness of future judging processes.
Adherence to Rules and Guidelines:
Judges shall familiarise themselves with and abide by the rules, guidelines, and procedures established by the awards ceremony organisers.
They must follow prescribed timelines, criteria, and methodologies for evaluating nominees and selecting winners.
Continuous Learning and Development:
Judges should engage in ongoing learning and development opportunities to enhance their judging skills, knowledge, and understanding of industry trends.
They shall stay informed about best practices and emerging issues relevant to the awards ceremony’s field or industry.
Promptness:
The dates for submission of scoring and feedback will be made available to all judges in advance and judges will be required to comply with these dates. In case of difficulty, judges must notify The National Cyber Awards immediately when a delay presents itself as a possibility.
Judges must complete scoring and feedback on the judging platform by the judging closing date. If any judge is unable to complete judging, they must alert The National Cyber Awards as soon as they are aware.
By adhering to this code of conduct, judges of an awards ceremony can uphold the integrity, credibility, and prestige of the event while ensuring a fair and transparent recognition of nominees’ achievements.
Judges are to refrain from communicating in any way with entrants or finalists prior to the Awards ceremony. If a judge is contacted by an entrant or finalist directly, or through social media, please alert the The National Cyber Awards events team via info@thenationalcyberawards.org immediately.
Judges must attend the judges training or alert the awards The National Cyber Awards if unable to attend, so alternative training can be given.
All judges must address any concerns on outcomes and process (such as criteria and judging process) by giving feedback to The National Cyber Awards. A judges’ feedback survey will be made available to facilitate this after the judging has finished and we strongly encourage participation in this, so that we may continuously improve.
Code of Conduct for Guests at The National Cyber Awards 2024
We are dedicated to providing a harassment-free, educational and enjoyable event experience for everyone regardless of gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race or religion.
All communication and interactions should be appropriate for a professional audience. Comments or images that are defamatory, slanderous, discriminatory, obscene or of a sexual nature are prohibited.
By participating in the Event as a guest, you agree to abide by the following Code of Conduct:
Respectful Behaviour:
Treat all attendees, organisers, staff, and fellow guests with respect and courtesy. Harassment, abuse, discrimination, or any form of disrespectful behaviour will not be tolerated.
Inclusivity:
Embrace diversity and inclusivity. The Event welcomes attendees of all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives. Be mindful of your words and actions to ensure that everyone feels welcome and valued.
Professionalism:
Maintain professionalism in your interactions with others. Refrain from engaging in disruptive or inappropriate behaviour that may detract from the Event experience.
Compliance with Policies:
Adhere to all Event policies, guidelines, and instructions provided by organisers and staff. Failure to comply with Event policies may result in removal from the premises.
Privacy and Confidentiality:
Respect the privacy and confidentiality of fellow attendees and Event participants. Refrain from recording, photographing, or sharing sensitive or private information without explicit consent.
Responsible Consumption:
Consume alcoholic beverages responsibly. Intoxicated behaviour that disrupts the Event or compromises the safety of others will not be tolerated. If you have consumed alcohol and require assistance, please let the organisers know for assistance.
Substance Abuse
The use or dissemination of illegal drugs of any kind is strictly prohibited. Anyone found with or using illegal substances will be removed from the venue and banned from all future events.
Compliance with Laws
Abide by all laws and regulations while attending the Event. Illegal or unlawful behaviour will not be tolerated and may result in legal consequences.
Reporting Concerns
Report any violations of this Code of Conduct or any concerns regarding the behaviour of others to Event organisers or staff immediately. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.
By attending The National Cyber Awards, you acknowledge and agree to comply with this Code of Conduct and full event terms and conditions found here. Event organisers reserve the right to take appropriate action, including removal from the premises and banning individuals from future events, in response to any violations of this Code of Conduct.
We thank you for your cooperation in helping to create a positive and inclusive Event environment for all attendees.
Future Tech Events Ltd, on Behalf of The National Cyber Awards Team
