United Against Corruption: Zimmer Biomet's Ongoing Commitment to Integrity
By: Angela Main, Zimmer Biomet Global Chief Compliance Officer
December 9 is International Anti-Corruption Day, a global observance established by the United Nations to raise awareness about the impact of corruption and the responsibility we all share in preventing it. This year’s theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” underscores a simple truth: the values we reinforce today determine the future we create.
For me, integrity is not a standalone set of initiatives or checklists. It is a mindset – one that guides how we innovate, how we collaborate and how we earn trust from patients, partners, regulators and each other. In the MedTech industry, where our work directly influences patient outcomes, corruption is not merely unethical; it can undermine the very mission Zimmer Biomet is here to fulfill: to alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for people around the world.
Our commitment to the highest ethical standards comes to life every day, but especially so during our annual Compliance Week—celebrated for the 10th time this year. More than an event, Compliance Week creates a global dialogue bringing team members together at every level to reinforce why ethics matter and the role each of us plays. Through interactive sessions and leadership engagement, Compliance Week keeps ethics at the core of our culture and reminds us that integrity drives both our reputation and long-term success.
Our Approach to Anti-Corruption
We take a zero-tolerance stance on bribery and corruption. Upholding ethical practices is not optional – it is fundamental to who Zimmer Biomet is and how we operate. Our comprehensive, globally-aligned program includes:
- Clear Policies and Training: Our global anti-corruption policy prohibits bribery in any form and applies to all team members and third parties acting on our behalf. Regular training ensures everyone understands the rules and their responsibilities.
- Rigorous Third-Party Due Diligence: Because we operate in highly regulated markets, we carefully vet distributors, agents, and consultants to ensure they share our ethical standards. This proactive approach helps us to identify and mitigate risks before they arise.
- Internal Controls and Monitoring: Robust financial and accounting controls help us maintain accurate records and detect irregularities early. Our compliance team continuously monitors and audits to ensure adherence.
- Speak Up Culture: Integrity cannot thrive without openness. We empower every team member to raise concerns through multiple confidential reporting channels, including a 24/7 hotline. Retaliation against good-faith reporting is strictly prohibited.
Recognized for Doing What's Right
In 2025, we were honored to be named one of Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies, recognizing our dedication to doing business the right way and leading by example in our industry. While recognitions like this are meaningful, what they truly represent is the collective commitment of our global team members to uphold our values consistently.
A Call for Collective Responsibility
As we join the global community in observing International Anti-Corruption Day, I am reminded that safeguarding integrity is not the role of one team, leader or generation. It is a shared responsibility that extends across borders, cultures and industries. We each play a role in shaping environments where bribery and corruption cannot take root.
I encourage all of us, those inside and outside of Zimmer Biomet, to continue championing ethical behavior in every decision we make. Together, we can shape a future where integrity thrives.
Learn more about how we're holding ourselves accountable and driving progress in our latest Sustainability Report.
