Executive positions involved in white-collar crime

摘要

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present an empirical study of white-collar crime in business organisations, to create insights into perceptions of potential offenders. Design/methodology/approach – A survey instrument was developed and submitted electronically to the chief financial officers of the 500 largest business organisations in Norway. Findings – The study identified financial misconduct by chief executive officers in the company as the crime associated with the most serious consequence for the company. However, a person in a purchasing and procurement function is assumed to be the most likely involved in and vulnerable to white-collar crime. Research limitations/implications – This is a survey approach that does not reflect actual crime. Practical implications – Both control mechanisms and ethics are needed to prevent and detect white-collar crime. Social implications – No executive should be left alone to handle business matters that can benefit himself/herself. Rather, the four eyes principle should always be applied. Originality/value – The paper provides statistical evidence that top-level executives are involved in financial crime.