A factor often cited in governance failures is a poor “tone at the top.” Beyond overseeing and asking the right questions of management regarding an organisation’s ethics and compliance efforts, what is the role of the board in building an ethical culture? Building a culture of ethics and compliance within an organisation is a business imperative. From the boardroom to the mailroom, everyone should adhere to the same standards. The director’s role in oversight of an organisation’s ethics and compliance program is important to its success. An effective ethics and compliance program requires senior management involvement, organisation-wide commitment, an effective communications system, and an ongoing monitoring system.