Channel can be used by anyone, 24/7, and it permits anonymous whistleblowing

Petrobras’ new channel for reporting allegations began operating today (Wednesday, November 18). Structured to function 24 hours a day, with services in Portuguese, English and Spanish, the channel will enable allegations to be submitted via the website or by phone. The allegations will be received by an independent specialist company. The new channel is part of a series of measures that Petrobras is adopting in order to enhance and strengthen its governance.

Allegations can be submitted by anybody by visiting https://contatoseguro.com.br/petrobras or calling 0800 601 6925 from within Brazil. (To phone from other countries, please see the details at https://ouvidoria.petrobras.com.br.) Whistleblowers may choose to remain anonymous, except in cases involving behavioral matters (physical and psychological violence, bullying and sexual harassment). The system used by the channel does not permit tracking that could identify anyone making an allegation.

The reporting channel has a form to fill in with details to enable the irregularity in question to be investigated. These details include a description of the alleged facts, the business unit involved and the period when they happened, as well as information about the people or companies involved. It will also be possible to submit documents and suggest witnesses. Whistleblowers will receive a code, which will allow them to track the progress of their allegation on the website and see what measures have been taken in response.

After being received and classified, the allegations will be submitted to the Ombudsman General’s Office, which will continue with the process, including referrals to investigation areas and monitoring of each case.

New ombudsman general

Petrobras’ Board of Directors has approved the appointment of Mário Vinícius Claussen Spinelli to the position of ombudsman general. The board chose him from a shortlist drawn up by Korn Ferry, a specialist executive recruitment firm. The candidates were analyzed by Petrobras’ Audit Committee and Remuneration and Succession Committee, which made their recommendation to the Board of Directors. The process of selecting the new ombudsman general is part of a set of actions the company is adopting in order to improve and strengthen its governance.

Mário Vinicius Claussen Spinelli previously worked as a civil servant at the Office of the Comptroller General (CGU) and as the comptroller general of Minas Gerais State. He held various functions at CGU, including the secretary for preventing corruption and strategic information. He has undergraduate degrees in civil engineering and mathematics and an MA in public administration. He is currently doing a PhD in public administration and government at the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV).