A STUDY ON THE PROFESSIONAL ETHICAL STANDARDS EXPECTED OF OFFICE MANAGERS AMIDST AN EVOLVING WORK ENVIRONMENT: THE CASE OF BIGGI COMPANY, LAGOS STATE

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study In recent years, the role of office managers has undergone a notable transformation due to shifts in organizational structure, workplace culture, and rapid technological advancement. Traditionally, office managers were primarily tasked with handling day-to-day administrative functions and ensuring the smooth operation of the office. However, their responsibilities have now expanded significantly to include strategic planning, leadership, and the upholding of ethical standards (Derven, 2016). Technology has played a pivotal role in reshaping the workplace. The introduction of digital tools, automation systems, and remote work technologies has revolutionized how office operations are conducted. While these changes have increased productivity and improved communication, they have also introduced new ethical concerns. For example, office managers must now address issues related to data protection, responsible use of technology, and cybersecurity. Protecting sensitive information and ensuring the confidentiality of online communications are essential ethical responsibilities in this digital era (Smith & Rupp, 2022). In addition, evolving organizational structures have influenced the office manager’s role. Many modern companies are adopting flat or matrix-style structures to promote collaboration and adaptability. Within these frameworks, office managers are expected to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics while upholding ethical standards across various departments and teams. This shift from traditional hierarchical systems to more flexible management models emphasizes the need for sound ethical judgement and principled leadership (Drucker, 2017). Furthermore, workplace culture has evolved to place greater emphasis on values such as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Today’s office managers are expected to create an inclusive atmosphere that respects and embraces diverse perspectives. This cultural change requires a deep understanding of ethical principles relating to fairness, human dignity, and non-discrimination. The rise of remote work and flexible schedules has also introduced new ethical challenges, compelling office managers to adapt their leadership approaches to effectively support a geographically dispersed workforce (Gurchiek, 2020). Professional ethics refers to the established standards and guiding values that inform the actions and decisions of professionals. For office managers, this encompasses values such as accountability, confidentiality, fairness, and transparency. Accountability ensures that managers are answerable for their choices and behaviors, while transparency promotes honest and open communication. Fairness requires equitable treatment of all employees, and confidentiality involves the secure handling of sensitive information (Ferrell & Fraedrich, 2015). Office managers in today’s fast-paced work environment face numerous ethical dilemmas, often having to make difficult decisions that affect multiple stakeholders. Challenges may include managing employee privacy, allocating limited resources fairly, and resolving internal disputes. The pressure to meet organizational targets can sometimes lead to ethical compromises, making it even more critical for office managers to operate on a solid ethical foundation supported by clear policies (Koh, 2022). Ethical leadership is essential to cultivating a strong ethical culture within organizations. Office managers who lead with integrity set the tone for the workplace, demonstrating ethical behavior that encourages trust and accountability. Ethical leadership not only involves adhering to ethical principles but also actively promoting ethical conduct and discouraging unethical practices. Brown and Treviño (2016) argue that staying informed about emerging ethical issues and continuously engaging in ethics-related training is vital. Although many office managers acknowledge the importance of professional ethics, there remains a lack of comprehensive research focusing on ethical practices specific to their role in today’s changing office environment. Most existing studies either generalize managerial ethics or explore isolated ethical challenges without offering a holistic view of the ethical landscape that office managers currently navigate (Ciulla, 2015). This study aims to address that gap by exploring how office managers perceive and implement professional ethics in the context of an evolving workplace. Specifically, this research will examine the ethical standards required of office managers in the modern office setting, using Biggi Company in Lagos as a case study. 1.2 Statement of the Problem The modern office environment is rapidly changing, influenced by shifts in organizational frameworks, cultural expectations, and technological innovations. These developments present new challenges for office managers, who must navigate ethical complexities while maintaining professionalism and organizational integrity (Ciulla, 2015). Professional ethics—which include accountability, transparency, fairness, and confidentiality—are fundamental to effective leadership and staff management. Yet, despite the acknowledged importance of these values, there is limited understanding of how office managers apply and uphold them within the context of a constantly evolving work environment. Existing literature lacks comprehensive insight into the specific ethical issues faced by office managers. Most research focuses either on general managerial ethics or specific components of office management without addressing the unique ethical demands placed on today’s office managers. As a result, this study sets out to explore the professional ethics required of office managers in a changing office environment, with Coca-Cola Company in Lagos serving as the focal point. 1.3 Objectives of the Study The main goal of this research is to examine the professional ethics necessary for office managers in an evolving work environment, using Biggi Company in Lagos as a case study. The specific objectives are: i. To identify the core ethical principles that office managers need in today’s modern office setting. ii. To assess how technological advancements affect the ethical responsibilities of office managers. iii. To investigate the ethical challenges encountered by office managers in an evolving workplace. 1.4 Research Questions This study will be guided by the following research questions: i. What ethical principles are essential for office managers in today’s office environments? ii. Do technological advancements influence the ethical responsibilities of office managers? iii. What are the ethical challenges faced by office managers in a changing office environment? 1.5 Significance of the Study To Business Organizations: Ethical leadership plays a crucial role in shaping workplace culture and the overall organizational climate. Office managers who adhere to ethical standards help create environments marked by trust, fairness, and respect, which in turn boosts employee morale, engagement, and productivity. A healthy work culture also reduces staff turnover, attracts skilled professionals, and encourages teamwork. By exploring the ethical dilemmas faced by office managers, this study will offer insights that can help organizations implement ethical practices and build a culture of integrity and accountability. To Academia: The findings of this study will contribute to scholarly literature on professional ethics in management. It will serve as a valuable resource for academic institutions, enrich library collections, and guide future researchers who are interested in studying ethics within evolving work environments. 1.6 Scope of the Study This study is focused on exploring the professional ethics expected of office managers in the context of a dynamic work environment, specifically within Coca-Cola Company in Lagos. On an empirical level, the research will: Identify the key ethical principles for modern office managers, Evaluate the influence of technological changes on ethical responsibilities, and Examine the ethical challenges office managers face in adapting to new workplace dynamics. Geographically, the research is limited to Biggi Company in Lagos. 1.7 Limitations of the Study As with any research project, certain limitations were encountered during the study: Time Constraints: The researcher faced challenges balancing the demands of conducting this study with other academic responsibilities such as attending lectures and completing coursework. Financial Limitations: Considerable financial resources were required for tasks such as printing, data collection, and acquiring relevant materials, which presented a challenge. Limited Access to Materials: A significant constraint was the difficulty in sourcing literature directly related to the specific focus of this research. The limited availability of relevant studies posed a challenge to the literature review process. 1.8 Definition of Terms Professional Ethics: Refers to the set of principles and standards that guide professional behavior and decision-making. For office managers, this includes values such as accountability, transparency, fairness, and confidentiality. Office Manager: A professional responsible for overseeing office operations, including administrative functions, staff coordination, and implementation of ethical and strategic goals. Changing Office Environment: Describes the evolving nature of workspaces influenced by technological innovation, new organizational structures, and shifts in workplace norms. Ethical Dilemma: A situation where one must choose between conflicting ethical principles, often involving complex decision-making with no clear right or wrong solution. Accountability: The obligation of office managers to take responsibility for their actions and decisions, ensuring they are answerable to all stakeholders involved. Transparency: The act of being open and honest in communication and operations, making information readily accessible and understandable. Confidentiality: The duty to protect private or sensitive information from unauthorized access or disclosure. Fairness: The ethical obligation to treat all individuals equitably and without bias, ensuring consistent application of policies and decisions. Technological Advancements: Innovations in technology that transform how office tasks are performed, such as digital tools, automation, and remote working systems. Workplace Culture: The shared values, beliefs, and practices that influence behavior and interactions within an organization. Emphasis on DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) is a significant aspect of modern workplace culture.