Job Title: Lead Auditor
Department: Certification
Reports To: Certification Manager / Head of Certification
Job Summary
The Lead Auditor is responsible for planning, leading, and executing management system audits at client organizations in accordance with applicable standards such as ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 45001:2018, ISO 22000:2018, ISO 27001:2022, and ISO 20000-1. The Lead Auditor manages audit teams, ensures the quality and integrity of audit processes, prepares comprehensive audit reports, and provides recommendations regarding certification decisions. The role upholds impartiality, confidentiality, and compliance with accreditation and company requirements.

Key Authorities
• Plan, assign, and lead audit teams for certification, surveillance, and recertification audits.
• Approve audit plans, schedules, and allocation of responsibilities within the team.
• Make recommendations on certification, recertification, or follow-up actions based on audit outcomes.
• Review and approve audit reports prior to submission to Certification Manager.
• Liaise directly with clients regarding audit arrangements and findings.

Key Responsibilities
• Lead on-site and remote audits of client management systems against relevant ISO standards.
• Prepare detailed audit plans, checklists, and resource allocations for audit assignments.
• Guide and supervise audit team members, ensuring adherence to audit protocols and standards.
• Collect and verify objective evidence through interviews, observations, and document review.
• Identify and document nonconformities, best practices, and areas for improvement.
• Conduct opening and closing meetings with client management to communicate audit scope, findings, and recommendations.
• Prepare, review, and submit clear and accurate audit reports in a timely manner.
• Ensure impartiality, objectivity, and confidentiality throughout the audit process.
• Keep up-to-date with changes in applicable ISO standards, accreditation requirements, and industry best practices.
• Mentor and support auditors through training and feedback.
• Participate in auditor calibration and continuous professional development activities.

Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, Information Technology, Environmental Studies, Food Safety, or a related field.
• Certification as a Lead Auditor for relevant ISO standards is required.
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in auditing, with at least 3 years as an auditor and experience in leading audit teams.
• Comprehensive knowledge of management system standards and audit methodologies.
• Exceptional leadership, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication, report writing, and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail, impartiality, and ethical conduct.
• Proficiency in MS Office and audit management tools.

Key Competencies
• Leadership and team management
• Analytical thinking and decision-making
• Communication and presentation skills
• Impartiality and integrity

Work Environment
Work involves frequent travel to client sites and occasional remote audits. The role requires the use of computers and standard office/audit equipment. Physical demands are minimal but may include site inspections requiring walking, standing, or light lifting.
Compensation and Benefits
• Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications.
• Benefits: Health insurance, annual leave, professional development, travel allowances, and other standard company benefits.