Why Should My Organization Have an Ombuds?

The Value of the Organizational Ombuds Role

Whether you are in a higher ed, corporate, government, NGO/association, K-12 or research setting, adding an organizational ombuds is a proven and effective way to: 

  • Build and improve workplace culture

  • Support employees and other stakeholders 

  • Provide an informal and confidential space to identify and address issues 

  • Support DEIAB efforts including racial and social injustice 

  • Support those impacted by harassment 

  • Prevent bias and harassment issues from escalating 

  • Reduce complaint investigation time

  • Reduce litigation costs 

  • Reduce employment litigation insurance premiums.  

  • Improve governance 

  • Address interpersonal and group conflict 

  • Uncover and address systemic issues to create healthier organizations, and 

  • A myriad of other concerns

Below are several resources to help you learn more.  Whether you are in the C-suite or hold another leadership position in your organization, serve on a Board of Trustees or Directors, or are a lawyer advising organizations or shareholders, the International Ombuds Association is here to help you get started. Contact our Executive Director, Ellen Miller at [email protected] to set up an appointment.    


Resources about Organizational Ombuds

 

HARASSMENT AND RISK MITIGATION:  

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND BELONGING (DEIAB) 

ASSOCIATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL SOCIETIES 

GOVERNMENT

 

IOA also publishes the Journal of International Ombudsman Association (JIOA) which is available to the public for review on a variety of issues impacting organizational ombuds.