The aim of the ISO 9001 lead auditor course is to provide delegates with the knowledge and skills required to perform first, second and third-party audits of quality management systems against ISO 9001:2026, in accordance with ISO 19011:2026 and ISO/IEC 17021-1, as applicable. All references to ISO standards in this document are to the current versions, unless stated otherwise. Delegates who complete this CQI and IRCA or Exemplar Global Certified ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor (QMS) Training course successfully (within the five years prior to making an application to become a certificated auditor) will satisfy the training requirements for initial certification as an IRCA or Exemplar Global QMS auditor.
Quality Management System
ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Training Course (Auditor/Lead Auditor)
Approved by:
Course ID: PR 328 / 18114
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Requirements
Prior Knowledge Requirements
Recommended prior knowledge: FD116/ ISO 9001:2026 Foundation (QMS)
Management systems (1) The Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA) cycle (2)The core elements of a management system and the interrelationship between top management responsibility, policy, objectives, planning, implementation, measurement, review and continuous improvement.
a) Quality Management: (1) The fundamental concepts and the seven quality management principles (see ISO 9000). (2) The relationship between quality management and customer satisfaction.
b) ISO 9001: Knowledge of the requirements of ISO 9001 and the commonly used quality management terms and definitions, as given in ISO 9000, which may be gained by completing a CQI and IRCA or Exemplar Global Certified ISO 9001:2026 Foundation (QMS)Training or equivalent.
Virtual Technology Requirements
To participate in the virtual training sessions, you will need:
- Workplace Networks & VPN Connections
- In our experience, Workplace IT environments’ internal configurations and available software can vary (new or old), and there may be various limitations or other restrictions in place, and as such, the functionality of any Learning Management System (LMS) may be impacted, restricted, and may not perform well.
- The use of a VPN connection can result in poor performance and interfere with the SSO (Single Sign On) that connects users from our website and associated applications to their eLearning modules. We strongly recommend ensuring you are disconnected from a VPN or Proxy Server if experiencing any issues with accessing the eLearning modules.
- Recommended Operating Systems
- Windows 7/10, macOS Sierra, iPad iOS 10
- Mobile Devices
- The Kelmac Group Academy LMS is not available on a mobile app at this time. We recommend using a web browser on a mobile device to complete any eLearning modules. However, if completing any final assessment, we recommend completing it via a desktop browser.
- Internet Speed & Reliability
- We recommend using an internet connection of 256 Kbit/sec or faster, which will ensure that you can successfully access our eLearning modules. A stable connection is important to ensure you do not experience any outages during the completion of any module or any final assessment (s).
- Recommended Internet Browsers
- Google Chrome 32-bit version 50 or later (most recommended)
- Safari 10 or later
- Note: Add-ons and toolbars can affect any browser’s performance.
- Recommended Settings
- We recommend that the following settings be enabled:
- Cookies
- Pop-ups (in both Internet browsers and security software)
- JavaScript
- Plugins
- Latest Version of Adobe Flash Player
- Latest Version of Adobe Acrobat Reader
- To view all resources made available within our LMS, you will probably need Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or an equivalent (i.e. Open Office, Viewer) installed.
- Virtual Learning Technology Requirements
- General
- Laptop or desktop computer (Note: A tablet or mobile device is not suitable for this training)
- Advisory: Certain features ONLY work on the laptop/desktop version & each Learner will be required to actively participate in online exercises/assignments via virtual breakout rooms in groups
- Webcam – Built-in or USB plug-in
- Advisory: This is required to be enabled for the duration of any live or group exercises, as 100% attendance & participation are required on all virtual workshops. We must be able to verify attendance during live sessions and during any virtual breakout sessions.
- Speakers and a microphone – Built-in or USB plug-in. We strongly recommend a headset for this training.
- Advisory: A headset will ensure that each Learner can effectively communicate & listen. Plus, a headset will provide a better filter for any background noise or interference that may impact the Learner experience, and that of other Learners.
- Internet connection – Minimum of 1.0 Mbps
- Advisory: Naturally, each Learner should ensure that they have reliable access to the Internet during the training, either through a suitable Wi-Fi or wired connection. Any disruptions may cause difficulties during the training and, in certain cases, if large portions of the training are missed, a Learner may not be able to complete the program (Certification Criteria may not be met).
- Zoom Workday
- This is the platform we use for video and team collaboration. Approximately 1 week in advance, a calendar invite including a link to access training material where the course documentation & resources are located. This team’s environment will also be used for submitting/sharing completed individual and team-based assignments.
- We will be sharing access with the EMAIL ID that was provided to us when each Learner was registered for the course.
- It is important that each Learner verifies that they can access the Zoom Workday platform successfully in advance of the live workshops to avoid delays or their planned attendance being impacted by not being able to access the Zoom Workday platform during the training.
- For support with accessing the Zoom Platform, please contact one of our representatives for assistance in advance of the start date to ensure you can gain access on the date of your training.
- Mimeo DRM Application - Digital Course Material
- This is the platform we use for distributing digital versions of course material, ISO standards, case study material, and reference material. Please note International standards are subject to international copyright laws and are not available to download or print.
Course Overview
Advance your career in quality auditing with our ISO 9001:2026 Auditor/Lead Auditor Training Course, designed for professionals aiming to lead successful external and internal audits or delegates who have the experience but who may not have an Internationally Certified CQI-IRCA or Exemplar Global training certificate.
This comprehensive program is available in In-Person/ Classroom, Online Live/Virtual or Blended Learning formats, ensuring flexibility for your learning needs.
Through this training, you'll gain the essential skills and knowledge to confidently lead audit teams and assess conformity with the ISO 9001:2026 Quality Management System standard.
Whether you're stepping into quality auditing or looking to enhance your expertise, this ISO 9001:2026 Auditor/Lead Auditor course provides the tools to achieve excellence. Start your journey toward becoming a certified leader in Quality auditing today!
Learning Objectives
Explain the purpose of a Quality Management System, of Quality Management Systems standards, of management system audit, of third-party certification and the business benefits of improved performance of the Quality Management System as covered in the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Course.
Explain the role and responsibilities of an auditor to plan, conduct, report and follow-up a Quality Management System audit in accordance with ISO 19011:2026, and ISO/IEC 17021:1, as applicable, through ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Training.
Plan, conduct, report, and follow up an audit of a Quality Management System to establish conformity (or otherwise) with ISO 9001:2026 and in accordance with ISO 19011:2026 and ISO/IEC 17021-1, as applicable.
Our Methodology
Introducing our skilled Consultants!
Gerard Kelly
Principal Consultant
IRCA Registration No: A143267
Syllabus breakdown
1.0 Hour
Introduction and Welcome
- Course Introduction and Welcome
- Course Certification
- Course Learning Objectives
- Course Program/Rules
- Auditor Certification
- Privacy, Data Processing, Special Considerations,
- Course Materials
- Virtual Platform Overview
- Learner Support
2.0 Hours
Introduction to Quality Management Systems
- Purpose and Benefits of a Quality Management System
- ISO 9001:2026 Overview and Structure
- Quality Management Principles and their relevance
- ISO 9001:2026 Family of Standards
- ISO 9001:2026 Process Model
- ISO 9001:2026 Key Concepts
- ISO 9001:2026 Terminology
- ISO 9001:2026 Requirements [Overview only]
5.0 Hours
ISO 19011:2026 Purpose, Structure and Requirements
- Overview and Context
- Introduction, Scope and Structure
- Terminology
- Audit Principles
- Audit Program
- Audit Life Cycle
- Auditor Roles and Responsibilities
- Auditor Behaviors
- Auditor Competency, Evaluation and Performance
7.0 Hours
Audit Initiation and Preparation
- Initiation and Activities
- Audit Preparation Activities
- Document and Data Review
- Audit Risks and Opportunities
- Audit Planning, Sequence and Strategy
- Audit Checklist/PEAR Report
- Audit File
- Final Audit Preparation Requirement Activities
1.0 Hour
Audit Examination/Debrief
- Examination Overview/De-Brief and Resources
- Examination Platform and Access
- Examination Preparation and Evaluation
- Examination Practice and Review
8.0 Hours
Conducting the Audit
- Audit Activities
- Pre-Opening Meeting Activities
- Opening Meeting Role Play Exercise
- Guides and Consultants Do's and Don'ts
- Audit Evidence and Trails Exercise
- Auditee Documentation and Records
- Audit Meetings Exercise
- Lead Auditor Leadership and Coaching
- Auditee Reactions and how to handle Exercise
- Audit Investigations
- Final Audit Team Meeting
- Audit Conclusion Statement
8.0 Hours
Conducting the Audit
- Audit Investigation - Case Study Exercise
- Audit Findings
- Audit Examination Preparation
2.0 Hours
Conducting the Audit
- Closing/Exit Meeting
5 Hours
Audit Post-Delivery
- Audit Post-Delivery Activities
- Reviewing Non-Conformities including Closure
- Extent Analysis, Root Cause Analysis, Correction, Corrective Action
- Correction/Corrective Action Implementation and Monitoring
- Corective/Corective Action Verification
- Corrective Action/Corrective Action Effectiveness Review
- Audit Completion
- Audit Program Review and Update
1.0 Hours
Class Close
- Summary/Review of Learning Objectives
- Examination Strategy
- Examination Results/Training Certificate
- Class Evaluation
- Class Close
Frequently Asked Questions
ISO 9001 Auditor/Lead Auditor Training, often called the ISO 9001 lead auditor course, teaches you how to plan, conduct, lead, report on and follow up on quality management system audits. The ISO 9001 lead auditor training course uses ISO 19011:2026 and covers how to collect evidence, identify conformities and nonconformities, document audit conclusions and prepare audit reports.
The course is for experienced quality professionals, quality managers, consultants and internal auditors who want to conduct or lead QMS audits. It’s particularly relevant if your work involves supplier, customer or certification audits.
You should have a working knowledge of ISO 9001:2026 and how a quality management system operates. We recommend Foundation Training or equivalent experience. Familiarity with the process approach, risk-based thinking, the PDCA cycle and basic audit terminology will help you get more from the course.
An auditor carries out assigned audit tasks, such as gathering evidence, evaluating conformity and recording findings. A lead auditor also leads and coordinates the audit team, communicates with the people involved and makes sure the audit meets its objectives. The lead auditor oversees reporting and follow-up.
Yes. The examination and assessment requirements depend on whether your course is offered under CQI-IRCA, Exemplar Global or both. The CQI-IRCA route includes an online, computer-marked examination that you must complete within the permitted exam window.
If you meet the course and assessment requirements on this ISO 9001 lead auditor certification course, you’ll receive the ISO 9001 lead auditor certificate that applies to your course route, whether that’s CQI-IRCA, Exemplar Global or both. Professional registration is a separate step. You may need to provide evidence of audit experience and competence under the relevant CQI-IRCA or Exemplar Global Auditor/Lead Auditor grade criteria.
The course prepares you to take part in internal audits, supplier or customer audits, and certification audits. To conduct certification audits, you’ll also need to meet the certification body’s requirements and obtain its approval.
The Kelmac Group® course is typically delivered over five days, with around 40 hours of training. Check the course schedule for available delivery options.
Completing the course is one step towards professional registration. CQI-IRCA and Exemplar Global may also ask for evidence of relevant audit experience, documented audit days and demonstrated competence, depending on the grade you apply for.
Internal Auditor Training prepares you to audit your own organisation’s QMS, including individual processes, their sequence and how they interact. Auditor/Lead Auditor Training also covers leading audit teams and carrying out full management system audits. Each certification scheme sets its own requirements for professional registration.
Yes. The auditing skills apply across sectors, from manufacturing to healthcare and services. If you need training tailored to a sector such as food and beverage or medical devices, choose a course that covers its specific requirements. Kelmac Group® also offers sector-specific Foundation and auditor training.
Lead auditors should review what changed in ISO 9001:2026, update their audit plans where needed and make sure the team evaluates evidence against the edition specified in the audit criteria.
No. Kelmac Group® runs its ISO 9001 lead auditor courses as a single Auditor/Lead Auditor programme. Whether you search for an ISO 9001 auditor course, ISO 9001 auditor training or ISO 9001 auditor certification, this is the course you would attend. The certificate you receive reflects your course route and assessment outcome.
The ISO 9001 lead auditor course price depends on the delivery option and your course route. ISO 9001 lead auditor course fees can also include applicable add-on fees. Contact Kelmac Group® to confirm the total cost and what’s included.
Delivery formats vary by course and schedule. For current ISO 9001 lead auditor online course and ISO 9001 lead auditor online training options, check the course schedule or contact Kelmac Group® to confirm the format available for your preferred dates.
Virtual Technology Requirements
To participate in the virtual training sessions, you will need:
- A current generation laptop or desktop computer with the latest web browser installed, capable of handling multiple software applications at the same time (a tablet or mobile device is not suitable for this training).
- HD webcam (built-in or USB plug-in).
- Speakers and a microphone (built-in or USB plug-in). A headset is highly recommended for optimal audio quality.
- Internet connection with a minimum of 2.5 Mbps download and 3.0 Mbps upload.
- Two display monitors are highly recommended: one for joining the virtual classroom and viewing e-course documentation (if applicable), and the other for completing class exercises and assignments.
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View Sample Certificate of Completion
Upon successful completion, each learner shall receive a digital Certificate of Completion that is recognized globally.