Information security management is the core focus of an ISO 27001 lead auditor, and that means it’s up to you to ensure the risk of cyber attacks remains minimal and customer information is kept safe. Without ISO 27001 compliance, businesses are at a huge risk of security breaches and even bigger threats, such as ransomware.

This is why ISO 27001 lead auditors are so important, and if you’re considering it as the next step in your career, this is everything you need to know.

What are the Requirements for Lead Auditor Training?

Most ISO 27001 lead auditors are expected to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field. This could be Information Technology, cybersecurity, or another tech field that explores the same areas. It helps a candidate to grasp a better understanding of the area and makes them more suited to the work. Additionally, you should also have auditing experience.

A Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) qualification can do wonders for you when becoming a lead auditor. It gives you more advanced skills for the role you’re applying for, and it can also help you greatly when you apply for work after passing your training.

How the Exam Process Works

The exam usually consists of seven sections, and each area can have up to 30 questions. The sections for the ISO 27001 lead auditor exam are as follows:

• Fundamental principles and concepts of Information Security Management System (ISMS)
• Information Security Management System (ISMS)
• Fundamental audit concepts and principles
• Preparation of an ISO/IEC 27001 audit
• Conducting an ISO/IEC 27001 audit
• Closing an ISO/IEC 27001 audit
• Managing an ISO/IEC 27001 audit program

To pass the exam, you need to score a minimum of 70-75% on your exam paper. This grade varies according to the examining body and the area you are in, and passing will give you ISO 27001 lead auditor qualifications.

What are the Responsibilities of a Lead Auditor?

As the lead auditor, you will be expected to conduct the audit and report any findings so that they can be properly processed and evaluated. You will then be responsible for follow-ups and audit closures. In addition to this, your responsibilities as an ISO 2700 lead auditor will include:

• Determining the scope of each audit
• Identifying the criteria for the audit
• Establishing objectives for the audits
• Coordinating and managing the audit team,
• Ensuring the audit is conducted according to the audit plan
• Verifying the effectiveness of the ISMS

The Difference Between Lead Auditors and Internal Auditors

An internal auditor works by assessing the management and security systems of their own organization. In contrast, a lead auditor not only manages teams but also conducts external audits for either certification or supplier verification.

Global Demands and Salary Trends for ISO Lead Auditors

There is a high global demand for ISO 27001 lead auditors, and the salary trends reflect this. On average, a lead auditor can expect to make around $120,000 per year. Starting salaries might be slightly lower at around $90,000, but this is likely to increase with experience.

Frequently Asked Questions