Supplier and/or Contractor Conflicts of Interest

This addresses conflicts of interest that may arise in connection with University procurement activities. A conflict of interest occurs when financial or personal considerations compromise, have the potential to compromise, or appear to compromise an employee's objectivity in fulfilling University responsibilities. This is designed to protect the University’s integrity in its purchasing processes.

North Carolina A&T State University does not engage in procurement transactions with University employees or with companies in which a University employee, or their spouse, holds a direct or indirect financial interest of greater than ten percent (10%).

This is intended to maintain the integrity of the University’s purchasing processes and ensure compliance with applicable state laws and University ethical standards.

Exceptions

An exception may be requested by submitting a written justification to the NC A&T Procurement Services Director. This request must include compelling documentation demonstrating that the supplier or contractor is the only source to supply the product or service.

If the Procurement Services Director determines the documentation is insufficient, the matter may be referred to the North Carolina Division of Purchase and Contract for a binding decision.

Applicable State Statutes

The following statutes from the North Carolina General Statutes apply to this policy:

• N.C.G.S. § 14-234 – Public officers or employees benefiting from public contracts; exceptions
  Prohibits public employees from deriving direct benefits from contracts they are involved in making or administering.
• N.C.G.S. § 138A-31 – Use of public position for private gain
  Prohibits state employees from using their position for personal financial benefit or that of a family member.