CQI and IRCA Certified ISO 22301:2019 Lead Auditor Classroom Training

Strengthen Business Continuity Through Effective Auditing

In today’s dynamic and risk-prone environment, organizations must be prepared to respond to disruptions and ensure continuity of critical operations. From cyber incidents to natural disasters, the ability to maintain resilience is essential for long-term success.

The CQI & IRCA Certified ISO 22301:2019 Lead Auditor Classroom Training is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and practical skills required to perform first, second, and third-party audits of a Business Continuity Management System (BCMS).

Participants will learn how to evaluate business continuity strategies, assess risk and impact analysis processes, and verify compliance with ISO 22301:2019 requirements. Through structured guidance and practical exercises, this course prepares individuals to plan, conduct, and report audits that enhance organizational resilience and continuity capabilities.

Why This Training Is Important

Organizations face increasing risks that can disrupt operations, damage reputation, and result in financial losses. ISO 22301:2019 provides a globally recognized framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving a Business Continuity Management System.

Lead auditors play a critical role in ensuring that business continuity arrangements are effective, tested, and aligned with organizational objectives. Their audits help identify gaps, strengthen preparedness, and ensure compliance with international standards.

This training enables professionals to develop the competence required to audit BCMS effectively and support organizations in building resilience and minimizing the impact of disruptions.

Learning Outcomes

By completing this training program, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the structure, intent, and key requirements of ISO 22301:2019
2. Interpret business continuity concepts such as Business Impact Analysis (BIA) and risk assessment
3. Apply auditing principles based on ISO 19011 and ISO/IEC 17021
4. Plan, conduct, and manage first, second, and third-party audits
5. Evaluate business continuity strategies, plans, and controls
6. Assess incident response, recovery, and continuity procedures
7. Identify nonconformities and opportunities for improvement
8. Prepare clear and professional audit reports
9. Lead audit teams and manage audit programs effectively

Course Benefits

Participants will gain practical expertise that enhances both professional capability and organizational resilience:

1. Ability to perform effective BCMS audits as a Lead Auditor
2. Improved understanding of risk management and business continuity planning
3. Internationally recognized CQI & IRCA certification
4. Enhanced organizational preparedness for disruptions
5. Strengthened compliance with regulatory and industry requirements
6. Increased career opportunities in risk, resilience, and auditing domains

Course Structure

The training is delivered through a structured classroom format combining theory, practical exercises, and case studies.

Module 1 – Introduction to Business Continuity Management Systems

Overview of BCMS concepts, ISO 22301:2019 framework, and key elements such as risk assessment and Business Impact Analysis (BIA).

Module 2 – Audit Principles and Planning

Covers auditing principles based on ISO 19011 and ISO/IEC 17021, including audit scope, objectives, risk considerations, and audit planning.

Module 3 – Conducting an Audit

Focuses on audit execution, including interviews, document review, evidence collection, and identification of nonconformities.

Module 4 – Audit Reporting and Follow-Up

Covers reporting of audit findings, communication with stakeholders, corrective action evaluation, and audit closure.

Module 5 – Certification Examination

Participants undertake a CQI & IRCA approved examination to validate their competence as Lead Auditors.

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for professionals involved in business continuity, risk management, and auditing, including:

1. Internal and external auditors
2. Business continuity and resilience professionals
3. Risk and compliance managers
4. IT disaster recovery professionals
5. Consultants and advisors
6. Individuals seeking CQI & IRCA Lead Auditor certification

Prerequisites

Participants are recommended to have:

1. Basic understanding of business continuity or risk management concepts
2. Familiarity with ISO standards or management systems
3. Knowledge of organizational processes and governance
4. Prior auditing experience is beneficial but not mandatory.