The Lead Auditor for Integrated Management System (IMS) is responsible for planning, coordinating, and conducting internal and external audits for companies that operate multiple management systems, including ISO standards such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety), and others as part of an integrated system. The role ensures that the company’s systems meet all regulatory, legal, and corporate standards, supporting the organization in continuous improvement and compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Audit Planning and Preparation:

• Develop audit plans for IMS audits, including scoping, resource allocation, and scheduling.
• Identify audit criteria, methodologies, and objectives based on the scope of the IMS.
• Review and assess relevant documents and records prior to audit (e.g., management reviews, corrective actions, past audit reports).

1. Lead Audits:

• Lead and conduct detailed audits across multiple management systems (Quality, Environmental, Health & Safety, etc.).
• Execute audits in compliance with ISO standards and company procedures.
• Engage with department heads and key personnel to gather information, observe processes, and assess conformance.
• Identify areas for improvement and recommend corrective actions.

1. Reporting and Documentation:

• Prepare audit reports, including findings, observations, non-conformities, and areas of improvement.
• Document audit results, including corrective and preventive actions, and follow up on their implementation.
• Provide clear and actionable feedback to management and stakeholders.

1. Compliance and Improvement:

• Ensure that IMS standards are being effectively implemented, maintained, and adhered to.
• Assess the organization’s conformity with both internal policies and external regulatory requirements.
• Advise the organization on any areas of non-compliance or potential risks and suggest improvements.
• Work with other teams to implement corrective actions and support continuous improvement efforts.

1. Training and Guidance:

• Provide training and guidance on IMS-related topics, including the benefits of an integrated system and best audit practices.
• Mentor junior auditors and provide leadership during audits.

1. External Audits:

• Lead external audits, ensuring that all stakeholders are prepared and that all necessary documentation is available.
• Engage with external auditors and regulatory bodies to ensure successful audits and certifications.

1. Risk Management and Strategic Input:

• Assist in identifying risks related to IMS and help develop strategies to mitigate them.
• Contribute to strategic planning for management system enhancements and certifications.

1. Client Interaction:

• Act as the main point of contact for clients during the audit process.
• Communicate audit findings and work with clients to implement solutions to any identified issues.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, Quality Management, or a related field.
• Certification in Lead Auditing (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, or other relevant ISO standards) is required.
• Additional qualifications or certifications related to IMS (e.g., ISO 50001, ISO 22301) are advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in auditing, with at least 2-3 years in a Lead Auditor role in a construction business or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, or other related standards, preferably within an integrated management system environment.
• Previous experience leading audits across multiple departments and interacting with senior management.

Skills:

• Auditing Skills: Strong understanding of audit processes, methodologies, and standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, etc.).
• Analytical Skills: Ability to assess compliance and risks, and to provide actionable insights based on audit results.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to communicate audit findings clearly and effectively to stakeholders at all levels.
• Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail when evaluating processes, records, and compliance documentation.
• Leadership Skills: Strong leadership capabilities to manage and guide audit teams and interact with management.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify root causes of issues, propose corrective actions, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Time Management: Ability to manage multiple audits simultaneously while maintaining high standards of quality.

Certifications:

• ISO 9001 Lead Auditor or similar certification (for relevant ISO standards).
• ISO 14001 Lead Auditor or equivalent (for environmental audits).
• ISO 45001 Lead Auditor or equivalent (for health & safety audits).
• Additional certifications related to IMS (e.g., ISO 50001, ISO 22301) may be beneficial.