Respectful Workplace Commitment

Research Manitoba and RITHIM are committed to fostering a professional environment in which all individuals are treated with respect, dignity, and fairness. We align with Manitoba government standards, which affirm that every employee has the right to work in a workplace free from harassment, bullying, and discrimination as outlined in the Public Service Commission’s Respectful Workplace Policy (Public Service Commission | Policy | Respectful Workplace Policy).

We understand that, in the course of our work, concerns or frustrations may arise among applicants, reviewers, stakeholders and partners. We are committed to addressing and resolving concerns constructively, with professionalism and mutual respect, and expect the same standard of conduct from all who engage with our organization.

A respectful workplace requires active participation from all individuals. Conduct that could reasonably offend, intimidate, humiliate, or undermine another person is not acceptable, whether intentional or unintentional.

These guidelines apply equally to:

• Research Manitoba employees, leadership, and board members
• Contractors, researchers, and collaborators
• External partners, stakeholders, and members of the public interacting with our organization

Respectful behaviour is expected at all times and across all forms of interaction, including in-person, virtual, written, and informal communications.

Expected Conduct

All individuals are expected to:

• Communicate professionally and constructively
• Treat others with courtesy, inclusion, and respect for diverse perspectives
• Maintain a safe environment free from harassment, discrimination, and bullying
• Raise concerns in a respectful and appropriate manner

Examples of unacceptable behaviour include, but are not limited to:

• Verbal or written abuse, intimidation, or threats
• Bullying, humiliation, or exclusion
• Discriminatory, belittling, disrespectful or harassing comments
• Abuse of authority or disrespectful conduct toward colleagues or partners

Reporting and Resolution

Under Manitoba legislation, employers are required to have clear procedures for reporting and investigating workplace harassment and to take steps to prevent and address it.

Our Chair, CEO, and Directors are responsible for addressing concerns promptly and appropriately in regards to staff and board/committee members.

Individuals who experience or witness inappropriate behaviour are encouraged to raise their concerns so that they can be reviewed and addressed in a timely and respectful manner. Concerns may be reported to a member of Research Manitoba’s leadership team, including the Director of Finance and Administration, the Chief Executive Officer, or the Chair of the Board, depending on the nature of the concern. Individuals are encouraged to use the reporting channel they feel most appropriate. Research Manitoba will:

• Respond to concerns in a timely, fair, and confidential manner
• Protect individuals from retaliation
• Take appropriate corrective action where required

Our Commitment

We are committed to maintaining a workplace culture that:

• Promotes respect, inclusion, and psychological safety
• Encourages open, constructive dialogue
• Supports collaboration across Manitoba’s research and innovation community

All individuals interacting with Research Manitoba are also expected to uphold these standards.

Remember – Before you type, THINK:

Is it True?

Is it Helpful?

Is it Informative?

Is it Necessary?

Is it Kind?

If any of these are no, consider whether the communication reflects the respect we expect from both our staff and those who engage with our organization.