Role Acceptance & Activation Policy (RAP)

Role Acceptance & Activation Policy (RAP)

Addendum to the IJBMRS Charter

Effective Date: 08 January 2026
Issuing Authority: Office of the Chairperson, IJBMRS
Administrative Authority: IJBMRS Research Secretariat (under Office of Research Secretariat(s), Ahmedabad Centre for Research and Innovation)

1. Purpose

The Role Acceptance & Activation Policy (RAP) is instituted to eliminate ambiguity between appointment, acceptance, and activation of any non-editorial role within IJBMRS.

This policy ensures that no individual may assume, represent, or exercise any IJBMRS role unless and until the role is formally activated through documented institutional procedure.

2. Scope of Application

2.1 This policy applies to all non-editorial roles, including but not limited to:

• Regional Secretaries

• Research Secretaries

• Coordinators

• Representatives

• Advisors (non-executive)

2.2 Editorial roles governed separately under the IJBMRS Charter and editorial protocols are excluded unless explicitly notified.

3. Definitions (Strict)

Appointment: A written communication offering a role, subject to acceptance and activation.

Acceptance: A written acknowledgment by the appointee confirming understanding of the role, term, limitations, and applicable policies.

Activation: A formal confirmation issued only by the IJBMRS Research Secretariat declaring the role operational.

Activation Date: The date on which the activation communication is issued. This date alone determines the legitimacy of role usage.

4. Appointment Is Not Activation (Core Rule)

4.1 Issuance of an appointment communication does not authorize:

• Use of designation;

• Public representation;

• Official communication;

• Access to IJBMRS systems or email;

• Exercise of any role-linked function.

4.2 Any assumption of role prior to activation is deemed unauthorized representation.

5. Mandatory Acceptance Protocol

5.1 Every appointee must submit written acceptance that explicitly confirms:

• Understanding of role scope and limitations;

• Agreement to applicable policies and addenda;

• Acceptance of term limits and review conditions;

• Acknowledgment of revocability and non-entitlement.

5.2 Acceptance must be:

• In writing;

• Sent through official channels;

• Recorded by the IJBMRS Research Secretariat.

5.3 Silence, informal consent, or public representation shall not be treated as acceptance.

6. Activation Protocol (Mandatory)

6.1 Activation shall occur only after:

• Valid acceptance is received;

• Documentation is verified;

• Internal records are updated.

6.2 Activation shall be issued:

• In writing;

• By the IJBMRS Research Secretariat;

• With a clear activation date.

6.3 Only upon activation may:

• The designation be used;

• Official emails be provisioned;

• Representational duties commence.

7. Prohibition on Premature Representation

7.1 The following actions before activation are strictly prohibited:

• Adding IJBMRS roles to CVs, LinkedIn, websites, or profiles;

• Sending emails or communications claiming the role;

• Representing IJBMRS in meetings or correspondence;

• Using IJBMRS logos, branding, or email identifiers.

7.2 Any such action constitutes institutional misrepresentation.

8. Consequences of Non-Compliance

8.1 Premature role assumption may result in:

• Immediate cancellation of appointment;

• Blacklisting from future non-editorial roles;

• Documentation of non-compliance in institutional records.

8.2 No explanation of intent, misunderstanding, or urgency shall excuse violation of this policy.

9. Authority & Administration

9.1 The IJBMRS Research Secretariat is the sole authority for:

• Receiving acceptances;

• Issuing activation communications;

• Maintaining activation records;

• Confirming role legitimacy.

9.2 The Editorial Office holds no role in acceptance or activation of non-editorial positions.

10. Interpretation & Final Authority

10.1 Interpretation of this policy rests exclusively with the Office of the Chairperson, IJBMRS.

10.2 This policy is binding on all current and future appointees.

10.3 This policy operates in conjunction with the IJBMRS Charter and relevant Addenda. In case of conflict, the Charter shall prevail.

Issued by:
Office of the Chairperson
International Journal of Business & Management Research Studies (IJBMRS)