ACS – GP USA ISO 22000:2018 Lead Auditor Course

The ACS – GP USA ISO 22000:2018 Lead Auditor Course is an advanced professional training programme designed to develop expert-level auditing skills in Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS). Based on the internationally recognized ISO 22000:2018 standard, this course equips learners with the competence to lead, plan, conduct, and manage both internal and external food safety audits in accordance with ISO 19011:2018 auditing guidelines.

This course provides a deep understanding of food safety principles, hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP), risk-based thinking, prerequisite programmes (PRPs), and the integration of food safety controls throughout the supply chain. Learners will also gain practical skills in audit planning, team leadership, interviewing techniques, evidence collection, nonconformity evaluation, and professional audit reporting.

Designed for food safety professionals, lead auditors, quality managers, compliance officers, consultants, and individuals aiming to advance in the food industry, this course strengthens both technical knowledge and leadership capabilities. Upon completion, learners will be fully prepared to lead ISO 22000:2018 audits, assess the effectiveness of food safety systems, and support organizations in achieving global food safety compliance and operational excellence across the food supply chain.

Course Overview

Awarding Body

ACS – GP

Duration

5 days

Study Mode

Online

Assessment

45-minute MCQ exam and FSMS simulation

Course Objectives

Understand ISO 22000:2018 requirements and their application to FSMS auditing.
Learn advanced audit principles and leadership techniques per ISO 19011:2018 guidelines.
Develop skills to plan, manage, and lead FSMS audits for certification purposes.
Identify food safety hazards, critical control points, and compliance issues in complex scenarios.
Explore methods for evaluating non-conformities and recommending strategic corrective actions.
Gain knowledge of audit reporting, follow-up, and certification decision-making processes.
Understand the responsibilities of a lead auditor in managing audit teams and stakeholders.
Learn to assess FSMS effectiveness and drive continual food safety improvement.

Entry Requirements

Minimum age: Learners must be at least 18 years old
Educational background: Level 2 qualification or equivalent is recommended
Language proficiency: Good English skills in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding are required as the course is delivered in English
Work experience: Prior experience in food production, catering, hospitality, agriculture, quality assurance, or food safety management is beneficial but not mandatory

Who Can Enroll

This course is designed for professionals who want to develop advanced food safety auditing skills and lead FSMS audits effectively.

Food Safety Managers and Supervisors
Quality Assurance and Quality Control Professionals
Internal and External Auditors
Food Production and Processing Staff
Catering and Hospitality Professionals
Agriculture and Food Supply Chain Workers
Compliance and Regulatory Officers
HSE (Health, Safety & Environment) Professionals
Food Safety Consultants
Individuals aiming to become ISO 22000 Lead Auditors

Learning Outcomes

Lead Food Safety Management System (FSMS) audits in line with ISO 22000:2018 and ISO 19011:2018 standards
Plan, manage, and coordinate complex audit activities and lead audit teams effectively
Identify food safety hazards, risks, and compliance issues during advanced audit scenarios
Evaluate non-conformities and recommend effective corrective and preventive actions
Prepare detailed, professional audit reports and support certification processes
Drive continual improvement of FSMS through effective audit leadership and decision-making
Communicate and manage relationships with auditees, stakeholders, and audit teams to ensure successful audit outcomes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You will learn how to lead FSMS audits, identify food safety hazards, and evaluate compliance with ISO 22000:2018 standards. The course also covers audit planning, team management, nonconformity analysis, and audit reporting.

Prior auditing experience is not mandatory, but basic knowledge of food safety systems is beneficial. Experience in food-related industries such as manufacturing or hospitality will help learners understand concepts more effectively.

Yes, ISO 22000:2018 is a globally recognized standard for Food Safety Management Systems. It is used by organizations worldwide to ensure food safety across the supply chain. This certification is valuable for international career opportunities.

After completing this course, you can work as a Lead Auditor, Food Safety Manager, Quality Assurance Manager, or Compliance Officer. It also enhances opportunities in food manufacturing, auditing firms, and regulatory bodies.

Yes, upon successful completion, learners receive the ACS – GP USA ISO 22000:2018 Lead Auditor Certificate. This certification demonstrates your competence in leading FSMS audits. It can be added to your CV and professional profile for career advancement.

The course is typically delivered through online or distance learning modes, allowing flexible study from anywhere. Learners can complete modules at their own pace. Assessments are designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical auditing skills.