What should an MPIO do about a conflict of interest?

Play by the Rules defines a conflict of interest as a situation where personal interests, relationships, loyalties or financial interests could influence, or appear to influence, someone's ability to make fair and impartial decisions. Conflicts can be actual, potential or perceived, and they do not always involve wrongdoing, but they must be managed.

Play by the Rules' guidance for individuals is:

1. Detect early. Ask: do I have a personal connection to anyone involved? Would others see my involvement as biased? Would I be comfortable explaining this to someone else? If unsure, declare it.
2. Disclose as soon as you identify a possible conflict, to a committee member, integrity manager, state coordinator or other appropriate senior person, and record the disclosure.
3. Decide how to manage it: remove yourself entirely if others can handle it, stay engaged transparently but step out of discussions or decisions where the conflict exists, or, if you cannot step aside, follow proper procedure and document your actions.
4. Document what was discussed and agreed, even if no further action is needed.

For clubs, one example strategy it gives is that an MPIO defers to another MPIO within the club or sport if they have a conflict of interest. The MPIO training also teaches avoiding handling complaints or giving advice where you have a real or perceived conflict of interest with one or more parties.

Sources: Play by the Rules, Managing Conflicts of Interest (September 2026); How MPIOs differ from complaints handlers (April 2025).