Sr. Officer / Asst. Manager - Certification

The Senior Officer – Certification is responsible for overseeing and managing the accreditation processes, ensuring compliance with ISO 17021-1 and other relevant standards, and maintaining the overall quality assurance framework for the certification body’s activities. The role involves managing the accreditation relationship, monitoring quality systems, conducting Internal audits, and ensuring that the certification processes are in line with international standards and regulatory requirements.

1. Accreditation Management:

   • Lead and manage the accreditation process in accordance with ISO 17021-1, ensuring all documentation and procedures meet the required standards.
   • Prepare and submit accreditation applications, renewals, and surveillance reports to relevant accreditation bodies.
   • Liaise with accreditation bodies to facilitate assessments, audits, and continuous improvements.
   • Coordinate the internal and external audits required by the accreditation body and ensure all actions arising from audits are effectively addressed.

2. Quality Assurance and Compliance:

   • Develop, implement, and maintain the quality management system (QMS) to ensure the certification process meets ISO 9001 and other relevant standards.
   • Conduct periodic quality reviews, audits, and assessments of certification activities to ensure conformity with ISO 17021-1 and other applicable standards.
   • Ensure that all certification bodies' activities, including document control, audit procedures, and personnel competency, comply with regulatory and accreditation requirements.
   • Review and monitor corrective and preventive actions arising from non-conformances, ensuring effective resolution and reporting.

3. Internal Audits & Assessments:

   • Conduct internal audits to assess the effectiveness of the QMS and identify opportunities for improvement.
   • Provide feedback and support to other departments in preparing for audits, inspections, and assessments.
   • Collaborate with audit teams to ensure that certification processes are aligned with quality and accreditation standards.

4. Training & Awareness:

   • Conduct training sessions for certification staff, auditors, and other stakeholders on accreditation requirements, ISO standards, and quality management procedures.
   • Ensure that all relevant personnel are aware of the accreditation and certification requirements and are trained in internal processes and quality protocols.

5. Documentation & Reporting:

   • Maintain up-to-date records of all accreditation-related documents, audits, corrective actions, and quality assurance activities.
   • Prepare reports and documentation for management review, including performance assessments, non-conformance reports, and corrective/preventive action plans.
   • Ensure that certification activities are well-documented, and that all records meet the accreditation body’s requirements.

6. Process Improvement:

   • Continuously assess and improve the certification processes, ensuring they are efficient and effective while maintaining compliance with applicable standards.
   • Support the development and implementation of best practices for accreditation management, quality assurance, and process optimization.

7. Customer Interaction & Support:

   • Address queries and concerns from clients regarding certification and accreditation matters.
   • Collaborate with certification teams to ensure customer satisfaction, timely processing, and the resolution of any certification-related issues.