Dear 'Contributor'
Thank you for agreeing to contribute to Guardian News & Media Limited (GNM).
Your unique supplier reference with GNM is GNL.... Please quote this in all correspondence with us.
Shortly we will be issuing you with a Framework Agreement, with reference A2..., via our Adobe Sign platform. The email will be sent from adobesign@adobesign.com.
This agreement contains our standard terms and conditions for freelance contributors and once signed will cover all your future contributions. Outside of detailing the terms, it does not contain any obligation on the part of GNM or you concerning the offer or acceptance of future commissions. Should it be required, any variations to fees or terms made on an ad-hoc basis will be reflected in commission letters we send you. Please check your spam folder if you do not receive these, or any other communication from GNM.
Our intention with Framework Agreements is to ensure clarity for both GNM and contributors regarding the basis of freelance engagements, in addition to helping us streamline our administrative processes.
In accordance with GNM's policies for vendors and suppliers, we require signature of the Framework Agreement prior to payment of related commission fees. If you have any queries please consult the FAQs below, or, if they do not answer your question, please contact the Rights & Operations team (rights@theguardian.com) at your earliest convenience for further clarification.
With kind regards
Rights & Operations
Business Affairs & Platform Partnerships
Q: As a new contributor, how do I provide GNM with my bank details?
A: Once your Framework Agreement has been signed and returned a Bank Details Request Form will be issued to you via Adobe Sign (from the same address) to allow you to securely provide banking and relevant tax details.
Q: I have contributed to GNM for some time. Why am I being asked to sign this now?
A: GNM has implemented a new process for commissioning contributors to streamline our administration processes and provide clarity to all parties about agreed terms.
Q: I have contributed to GNM previously. Why is my Framework Agreement backdated?
A: The Framework Agreement is dated from publication of your first commission to ensure we have a complete record of your contributions history and ensure clarity about our terms and conditions. The Framework Agreement will not vary the terms under which you made these past contributions.
Example of a Framework agreement