As we are seeing the growing job market it can be easily said that it’s one of the best circumstances to secure high-paying positions with the help of possessing the skills and certifications. Two of the in-demand certifications that help you to grow in a professional career along with high salary are the ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification and the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certification.
These certifications are important for businesses who strive for excellence in information security and quality management, respectively. It might not only help you with certifications which help you enter high-paying career opportunities but it will also help you in the career shift or if you want to grow in your professional career.
This blog discusses why ISO 27001 and ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certification are significant, the career opportunities they can offer, and why they are considered essential by employers around the globe.
What are ISO 27001 and ISO 9001 Standards?
ISO 27001:
ISO 27001 is an international standard for an information security management system. It covers all of the needs in designing, implementing, managing, and continually improving an ISMS. This set of standards makes sures that information resources are protected with the help of proactive security controls on the part of the businesses.
Getting ISO 27001 certification showcases that business is committed to maintain robust security practices and continuous growth. As cyber threats are increasing, the businesses that want to secure their data, protect client information, and reduce security risks are increasingly turning to ISO 27001.
ISO 9001:
ISO 9001 is the most recognized quality management system (QMS) standard in the world. This is a guideline for any organization to ensure that they are consistently meeting customer and regulatory requirements. ISO 9001 certification is available to organizations regardless of size or industry.
It addresses three prime elements including customer satisfaction, continuous improvement, and assurance of consistency in the quality process. An ISO 9001 certified company assures clients with regard to quality and service deliveries against or even better than expectation levels.
Role of the Lead Auditor
A Lead Auditor is responsible for conducting the auditing in business who follows processes and requirements of ISO standards. They undertake different assessments, identifications of fillers and provision of recommendations for enhancement. Therefore, they are important as they make sure that businesses obtain their certifications and sustain them in due course.
Roles & Responsibilities of a Lead Auditor
Planning and conducting audit plans, gathering evidence and assessing compliance with ISO standards.
- Identification of Non-Conformity: Identifying deviations against the standard and suggesting corrective action.
- Reporting of Findings: Preparing a thorough audit report and presenting findings before the management.
- Continuous Improvement: Assistance towards organizations in maintaining continued compliance and improvement in process over time.
Why Would Anyone Pursue ISO 27001 and ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certifications?
High Demand within the Job Market
As data security and quality management become top priorities for organizations worldwide, the demand for qualified Lead Auditors has surged. Companies in every industry, from IT and healthcare to manufacturing and finance, require Lead Auditors to ensure that they are in compliance with ISO standards.
Rising instances of cyberattacks and data breaches have increased the demand for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors. Organizations focusing on quality improvement of their products and satisfaction of their customers require the services of ISO 9001 Lead Auditors as well.
Great Salary and Job Security
Lead Auditor jobs also promise great salary packages. The market reports state that:
The average salary for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in the United Kingdom is around £45,000 to £60,000 per year. This varies based on factors such as years of experience, location, and the size and industry of the employer. The average annual salary for an ISO 9001 Lead Auditor in the United States is approximately $102,886. These positions also guarantee job security as auditors who are certified are in constant demand by organizations seeking to remain compliant and to reduce risk.
Career Advancement Opportunities
ISO Lead Auditor certifications have the potential of leading to numerous careers. Professionals with this certification can assume positions such as:
- Compliance Manager
- Quality Assurance Manager
- Information Security Consultant
- Internal Auditor
- Risk Management Specialist
The added benefits include that these certifications become a precursor to the higher position designations such as the Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
Global Acceptance
Since ISO standards are universally accredited, this means your certification holds high value worldwide. If you have a dream to work in North America, Europe, Asia, or even another part of the world, employers will take your ISO 27001 or ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certificate very seriously.
Personal Development and Skill Improvement
Getting certified as a Lead Auditor improves your communication, analytical, and critical thinking abilities. You will gain the ability to recognize issues, analyze procedures objectively, and make actionable recommendations. The abilities you acquire can be used in any field or role, increasing your professional versatility and value.
How to Become an ISO 27001 or ISO 9001 Lead Auditor?
Steps to Certification
- Complete the Training Course: You will need to enrol in a training course that is recognized for ISO Lead Auditor. The course is usually 4-5 days long and contains theoretical and practical elements.
- Pass the Exam: Once you have completed the course, you are required to pass a certification exam. The exam tests your knowledge of the ISO standard and your ability to perform audits.
- Gain Practical Experience: Most assessment bodies demand that applicants have gained practical auditing experience. One may be required to participate in several audits under the management of a competent auditor for this purpose.
- Obtain Certification: Once you meet the above requirements, you’ll be bestowed with your Lead Auditor certification.
Recognized Training Providers
Some of the prominent ones providing ISO 27001 and ISO 9001 Lead Auditor training are:
- NovelVista
- IRCA
- British Standards Institution (BSI)
- PECB (Professional Evaluation and Certification Board)
ISO 27001 and ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certifications are more than mere credentials; they lead one to rewarding careers in information security and quality management. As such, these certifications are more in demand by employers, for they recognize the need for strict standards and compliance.
Moving Forward To
If you are out there with the ambition for high-value jobs, career advances, or just a top player in your profession and business circle, then it will be well worth investing in these audit certifications. In a continuous change in the business dynamics, individuals with expertise on specialized audits will continue in great demand.
Take that stride, add to your skills sets, and open new chapters for yourself with ISO 27001 or ISO 9001 Lead Auditor certificates.
