Functional Description of the Role:
The Lead Auditor of Management Systems plays a pivotal role in overseeing and leading systematic audits of management systems. The primary objectives include identifying areas for improvement, ensuring compliance, and assessing the overall effectiveness of the management system. In addition to conducting audits, the Lead Auditor takes on a leadership role, guiding audit teams and providing direction throughout the audit process. Valuable insights gathered contribute to strategic decision-making, fostering continual improvement in organizational processes.
Minimum Education Requirement:
Completion of a minimum of 4 years of university education leading to a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent.
Training Requirement:
Candidates for certification must have successfully completed a comprehensive 40-hour training program covering advanced auditing principles, methodologies, and techniques outlined in ISO 19011. The training should also provide advanced knowledge of Auditing processes, including audit planning, execution, and leadership principles as per ISO 19011. It should also provide an in-depth understanding of organizational operations related to the specific management system standard relevant to the Lead Auditor’s responsibilities (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001) as well as provide knowledge of the ISO/IEC 17021-1 requirements related to the certification of management systems.
Skills and Abilities Requirements
Candidates for certification must be able to:
- Carry out management system audits based on ISO 19011 guidelines.
- Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills and interview techniques.
- Communicate audit results effectively.
- Apply ISO 19011 guidelines for managing an audit program.
- Apply ISO 19011 guidelines for the leadership of audit teams.
- Implement formal communication mechanisms to communicate audit results.
- Evaluate the aspects that allow an effective follow-up of the audit.
Work Experience Requirement:
To qualify for certification, candidates should have a minimum of four years of relevant work experience in a supervisory or leadership capacity. Candidates must provide two (2) Letters of Skills Attestation from supervisors or clients, highlighting leadership skills and contributions to the field. Candidates should have demonstrated their expertise by leading a minimum of five management system audits, showcasing their ability to effectively oversee and manage audit processes. To maintain ongoing certification, candidates must continue to lead a minimum of two audits annually, ensuring a consistent and active engagement in the field as a Lead Auditor of Management Systems.
