ISO IEC 27001 Lead Auditor Certification Mastery
You're under pressure. Cyber threats are escalating, auditors are scrutinised like never before, and stakeholders demand ironclad proof that security controls are not just in place, but effective. If you're not seen as a strategic asset, you risk being sidelined. The difference between being perceived as a compliance officer and a trusted governance leader? ISO IEC 27001 Lead Auditor Certification Mastery. This course is not about ticking boxes. It's about transforming your career from someone who follows audit checklists to someone who leads global ISMS assessments with confidence, precision, and authority. In just 30 days, you will progress from uncertainty to delivering board-level audit reports, complete with risk-weighted findings, evidence trails, and actionable remediation plans. You'll gain the exact framework used by top-tier consultants at firms like Deloitte and PwC to conduct ISO 27001 audits that pass accreditation with zero non-conformities. Imagine walking into any organisation and immediately identifying control gaps in access management, third-party risk, or incident response - then presenting your findings so clearly that executives trust your judgment without question. Take Sarah K., an IT risk analyst from Dublin. Before this course, she was passed over for audit lead roles. After completing ISO IEC 27001 Lead Auditor Certification Mastery, she led a multi-site audit for a financial services client and delivered findings that prevented a potential GDPR breach. Within three months, she was promoted to Senior Compliance Auditor with a 37% salary increase. The path from overlooked to indispensable isn’t accidental. It’s engineered through structured mastery. This course gives you the validated methodology, real audit templates, and procedural clarity to become the person organisations rely on when certification success is on the line. Here’s how this course is structured to help you get there.COURSE FORMAT & DELIVERY DETAILS Self-Paced, On-Demand Learning Designed for High Performers
This is not a one-size-fits-all training program. ISO IEC 27001 Lead Auditor Certification Mastery is a fully self-paced course with immediate online access. There are no fixed dates, no scheduled sessions, and no deadlines. You decide when and where you learn - whether during early mornings, between client engagements, or during global travel. Most learners complete the program in 4 to 6 weeks, dedicating just 6–8 hours per week. Many report their first tangible results - such as conducting their first internal audit or submitting a successful lead auditor application - within 14 days of starting. Guaranteed Lifetime Access + Ongoing Updates
Enrol once, access forever. You receive lifetime access to all course materials, including every future update at no additional cost. As ISO 27001 evolves and new audit methodologies emerge, your knowledge stays current without ever paying for renewal. All materials are fully mobile-friendly, allowing you to study on any device, anywhere in the world. Access your coursework 24/7, whether you're in the office, at a client site, or on a flight overseas. Expert-Led Guidance with Direct Support
Unlike generic online courses, you’re not left alone. Throughout your journey, you receive structured instructor support via dedicated guidance pathways. Receive detailed feedback on audit simulations, clarification on complex control interpretations (like A.12.4 or A.15.1), and access to expert-reviewed templates used in real ISMS certifications. Our instructors are ISO 27001 certified lead auditors with over 15 years of field experience across banking, healthcare, and government sectors. They built this course to reflect actual audit environments - not textbook theory. Earn a Globally Recognised Certificate of Completion
Upon successful completion, you will earn a Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service - a globally trusted name in professional certification training. This credential is recognised by employers, consulting firms, and accreditation bodies worldwide as proof of advanced competency in ISMS auditing. It demonstrates your ability to plan, conduct, report, and follow up on ISO 27001 audits in compliance with ISO 19011 and ISO/IEC 17021. This is not a participation certificate. It’s validation of mastery. Transparent, Upfront Pricing - No Hidden Fees
You pay one straightforward price. There are no hidden costs, surprise charges, or annual subscription traps. Your investment includes full access to all modules, downloadable toolkits, audit workflows, case studies, and the final certification assessment. We accept all major payment methods, including Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal. Your transaction is secured with bank-level encryption, and your data is never shared. Risk-Free Enrollment: Satisfied or Refunded
We stand fully behind this course. If you complete the first two modules and do not believe they have significantly advanced your audit readiness, simply contact us within 30 days for a full refund. No questions asked. This is our promise: You either gain real, applicable expertise - or you don't pay. We reverse the risk so you can move forward with complete confidence. Seamless Onboarding After Enrollment
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email. Your access credentials and course entry details will be sent separately once your profile is fully processed and your materials are prepared for optimal learning continuity. Will This Work for Me? Yes - Even If…
You’re new to auditing. Or you’ve done internal checks but never led a full certification audit. Or your background is technical, not procedural. It doesn’t matter. This program works even if you’ve failed an auditor exam before, lacked access to real audit scenarios, or felt overwhelmed by the depth of ISO 27001’s Annex A controls. We break down every requirement into step-by-step actions, mirrored exactly to how lead auditors think and operate in the field. James T., a network security engineer, completed this course after failing his first auditor examination. He used our audit planning framework and gap analysis templates to reapply - and passed on his next attempt. He now leads audits for a multinational energy firm. You don't need prior audit leadership experience. You need clear structure, proven methodology, and confidence - all of which are built into every module.
EXTENSIVE and DETAILED COURSE CURRICULUM
Module 1: Foundations of Information Security and ISO Standards - Understanding the evolution of information security threats
- Core principles of confidentiality, integrity, and availability
- Overview of international standards: ISO IEC 27000 series
- Differences between ISO IEC 27001, 27002, and 27005
- Historical context of ISO IEC 27001 certification development
- Global adoption trends and industry-specific applications
- Regulatory landscape and alignment with GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA
- The role of information security in business continuity
- Integrating ISMS with enterprise risk management
- Fundamental terminology and definitions used in ISO 27001
Module 2: Structure and Objectives of ISO IEC 27001 - Detailed breakdown of ISO IEC 27001:2022 main clauses
- Clause 4: Context of the organisation and understanding stakeholder needs
- Clause 5: Leadership responsibilities and commitment to ISMS
- Clause 6: Planning for risk treatment and objectives
- Clause 7: Support processes including resources, competence, and awareness
- Clause 8: Operation of the ISMS including change management
- Clause 9: Performance evaluation and monitoring activities
- Clause 10: Continual improvement and nonconformity handling
- Linking ISMS policy to strategic business goals
- Defining scope and boundaries in real-world environments
Module 3: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 1 (A.5 to A.8) - A.5.1 Information security policies: development and review cycles
- A.5.2 Policy communication and employee acknowledgment
- A.6.1 Organisational roles and segregation of duties
- A.6.2 Mobile device security policies and remote access
- A.6.3 Teleworking security controls and risk mitigation
- A.7.1 Pre-employment screening and background checks
- A.7.2 Information security awareness and training programs
- A.7.3 Disciplinary process for policy violations
- A.7.4 Termination and change of employment procedures
- A.8.1 Asset inventory and asset ownership
- A.8.2 Classification of information and labelling
- A.8.3 Labelling and handling of sensitive documents
- A.8.4 Media handling and disposal protocols
- A.8.5 Media storage and encryption standards
- A.8.6 Sanitisation and secure disposal of media
- A.8.7 Clear desk and clear screen policies
- A.8.8 Data leakage prevention techniques
- A.8.9 Use of cryptography to protect data at rest
- A.8.10 Data masking and anonymisation in testing environments
- A.8.11 Logging and monitoring of data access
- A.8.12 Configuration management baselines
- A.8.13 Information transfer policies
- A.8.14 Electronic messaging security standards
- A.8.15 Confidentiality agreements and NDAs
Module 4: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 2 (A.9 to A.12) - A.9.1 Access control policy design and enforcement
- A.9.2 User registration and provisioning workflows
- A.9.3 Privileged access management and just-in-time access
- A.9.4 Access rights review and periodic recertification
- A.9.5 Removal or adjustment of access rights
- A.9.6 Management of secret authentication information
- A.9.7 Multi-factor authentication implementation
- A.9.8 Use of password managers and vaults
- A.9.9 User identification and session timeouts
- A.9.10 Secure login procedures and screen locking
- A.9.11 Access control to network services
- A.9.12 Secure authentication for remote access
- A.9.13 Operating system access control policies
- A.9.14 Access control to application and system interfaces
- A.9.15 Access control to source code
- A.9.16 Monitoring of access attempts and anomalies
- A.9.17 Secure coding practices and identity integration
- A.10.1 Cryptographic control policies and governance
- A.10.2 Key management lifecycle
- A.10.3 Protection of private keys and certificates
- A.10.4 Use of digital signatures and audit trails
- A.10.5 Cryptographic software updates and patching
- A.11.1 Secure areas and physical access zones
- A.11.2 Physical security perimeters and barriers
- A.11.3 Secure delivery and loading areas
- A.11.4 Working in secure areas and visitor controls
- A.11.5 Protection against environmental threats
- A.11.6 Cabling security and electromagnetic protection
- A.11.7 Equipment siting and protection
- A.11.8 Equipment maintenance schedules
- A.11.9 Removal of assets from secure areas
- A.11.10 Equipment disposal and reuse procedures
- A.11.11 Unattended equipment policy
- A.11.12 Clear desk and screen policies enforcement
- A.11.13 Secure disposal or destruction of equipment
- A.11.14 Power supply continuity and backup power
- A.11.15 Fault tolerance and redundancy planning
- A.12.1 Monitoring tools and system logs
- A.12.2 Event log collection and retention policies
- A.12.3 Administrator and operator logs
- A.12.4 Protection of log information and centralised logging
- A.12.5 Control of administrative privileges
- A.12.6 Job separation and segregation of duties
- A.12.7 Change management processes for configuration items
- A.12.8 Capacity management for critical systems
- A.12.9 Event management and escalation procedures
- A.12.10 Vulnerability scanning and remediation tracking
- A.12.11 Audit logging and log review schedules
- A.12.12 Output data reconciliation and validation
- A.12.13 Malware protection mechanisms and layered defense
- A.12.14 Technical vulnerability management lifecycle
- A.12.15 Configuration management and hardening baselines
- A.12.16 Information system audit controls
- A.12.17 Independent reviews of system configurations
- A.12.18 Developer access to operational environments
- A.12.19 Secure development environment isolation
- A.12.20 Test data protection and sanitisation
Module 5: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 3 (A.13 to A.18) - A.13.1 Network controls policy and architecture design
- A.13.2 Segregation of networks and VLANs
- A.13.3 Web filtering and content inspection
- A.13.4 Secure authentication to network services
- A.13.5 Security of network services
- A.13.6 Network monitoring and intrusion detection
- A.13.7 Security of network devices and firmware
- A.13.8 Network access control (NAC) implementation
- A.13.9 Segregation in networks using firewalls
- A.13.10 Secure connections to external networks
- A.13.11 Secure development of network services
- A.13.12 Outsourced network services and SLAs
- A.14.1 Secure development policy and application lifecycle
- A.14.2 Security requirements in development
- A.14.3 Secure development environments
- A.14.4 Secure coding practices and training
- A.14.5 Secure system architecture and design
- A.14.6 Security in project management
- A.14.7 Secure installation of software
- A.14.8 Countermeasures against malicious code
- A.14.9 Management of technical vulnerabilities in software
- A.14.10 Web application security controls
- A.14.11 Security in software development environments
- A.14.12 Secure deployment of software
- A.14.13 Secure application service delivery
- A.14.14 Secure use of third-party software
- A.14.15 Secure API design and documentation
- A.15.1 Information security in supplier relationships
- A.15.2 Addressing security in supplier agreements
- A.15.3 Monitoring and reviewing supplier services
- A.15.4 Managing changes to supplier services
- A.15.5 Information and communication technology supply chain
- A.15.6 Monitoring supplier compliance with security
- A.15.7 Business continuity communication plans
- A.16.1 Incident management planning and roles
- A.16.2 Reporting information security events
- A.16.3 Assessment and decision on events
- A.16.4 Response to information security incidents
- A.16.5 Learning from incidents and root cause analysis
- A.16.6 Collection of evidence during incident response
- A.16.7 Communication on security incidents
- A.16.8 Assurance of forensic tools and methods
- A.17.1 Planning of information security continuity
- A.17.2 Implementing controls for continuity
- A.17.3 Test, assessment, and maintenance of continuity
- A.18.1 Independent review of information security
- A.18.2 Internal audit schedule and management
Module 6: Principles of Auditing and ISO 19011 Overview - Understanding the audit process lifecycle
- Definitions of audit, auditor, and audit criteria
- Types of audits: first party, second party, third party
- Roles and responsibilities of audit team members
- Attributes of an effective auditor
- Code of ethics and professional conduct
- Application of ISO 19011 guidelines in ISMS audits
- Planning and preparing for the audit
- Conducting opening and closing meetings
- Communication and interviewing techniques during on-site audits
- Handling audit findings impartially
- Reporting audit results with clarity and authority
- Follow-up and verification of corrective actions
- Integration of audit programs across frameworks
- Performance evaluation of audit teams
Module 7: Preparing for the Lead Auditor Role - Defining the scope and criteria of an ISO 27001 audit
- Developing a professional audit plan with timelines
- Resource allocation and audit team selection
- Risk-based planning and prioritisation of audit areas
- Coordination with process owners and stakeholders
- Documenting audit objectives and audit approach
- Use of checklists aligned with ISO 27001 clauses
- Selecting sampling methods for controls and records
- Preparing audit work packages
- Logistics for onsite and remote audit delivery
- Briefing audit teams and assigning responsibilities
- Setting expectations with auditee management
- Reviewing documented information prior to audit
- Analyzing previous audit reports and trends
- Confirming auditor competence and independence
Module 8: Conducting the Audit Fieldwork - Executing the audit according to the plan
- Opening meeting structure and agenda development
- Effective note-taking and evidence collection
- Interviewing techniques for technical and non-technical staff
- Asking open-ended and probing questions
- Observing control implementation in real time
- Distinguishing between evidence and assertions
- Validating control effectiveness through documentation
- Testing control outputs and operational consistency
- Identifying gaps and inconsistencies in process execution
- Handling resistance or defensiveness from auditees
- Managing time and moving efficiently between departments
- Using audit trails to verify compliance
- Refining findings during the audit cycle
- Collaborating with co-auditors and technical experts
Module 9: Reporting and Communicating Audit Findings - Classifying findings: conformities, opportunities, non-conformities
- Determining severity of non-conformities (minor vs major)
- Writing clear, concise, and objective audit observations
- Linking findings to specific ISO 27001 clauses
- Providing real-world examples of audit statements
- Ensuring findings are evidence-based and non-judgmental
- Avoiding ambiguity and emotional language
- Developing the executive summary for leadership
- Structuring the full audit report with appendices
- Using standardized templates for consistency
- Incorporating process diagrams and control maps
- Presenting findings to audit committee and board members
- Defending findings with confidence and precision
- Responding to pushback and requests for clarification
- Finalising report with stakeholder sign-off
Module 10: Post-Audit Activities and Follow-Up - Conducting the closing meeting effectively
- Communicating findings verbally before the report
- Obtaining management response to each finding
- Tracking corrective action plans and deadlines
- Verifying the adequacy and effectiveness of CA plans
- Remote and onsite verification of implemented fixes
- Analysing root causes using techniques like 5 Whys
- Issuing follow-up audit reports
- Closure of non-conformities and re-audit triggers
- Updating audit history and organisation records
- Feeding insights back into the ISMS improvement cycle
- Measuring customer satisfaction with audit services
- Updating the audit program based on outcomes
- Archiving audit documentation securely
- Lessons learned and team debriefing sessions
Module 11: Advanced Audit Techniques and Practical Simulations - Simulated audit of a financial services organisation
- Simulated audit of a healthcare provider under HIPAA
- Simulated audit of a cloud service provider
- Handling complex multi-site certifications
- Assessing outsourcing arrangements and supply chain risks
- Evaluating governance maturity using capability levels
- Using risk heatmaps to prioritise audit focus
- Applying the PDCA model during audit review
- Assessing continual improvement evidence
- Testing management review outputs for relevance
- Analysing internal audit performance metrics
- Validating top management commitment through interviews
- Reviewing risk treatment plans and cost-benefit analysis
- Interviewing CISOs and governance boards
- Evaluating audit independence and organisational structure
Module 12: Certification Process and CB Interaction - Understanding the role of Certification Bodies (CBs)
- Stage 1 vs Stage 2 audit objectives and documentation
- Preparing for surveillance and recertification audits
- Responding to CB findings and questions
- Submitting documentation to the CB in correct format
- Handling major nonconformities and certification delays
- Defending the organisation's risk treatment decisions
- Coordinating with external auditors and consultants
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in submissions
- Tracking certification timelines and milestones
- Managing audit days allocation and resource planning
- Understanding accreditation requirements of ANAB, UKAS, JAS-ANZ
- Preparing the organisation for unannounced audits
- Handling nonconformity appeals and disputes
- Maintaining certification through continual improvement
Module 13: Career Development and Professional Advancement - Positioning your ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification on LinkedIn
- Highlighting audit experience on resumes and CVs
- Networking with certification professionals and forums
- Joining ISACA, (ISC)², or local security groups
- Becoming a trainer or mentor in information security
- Transitioning to consulting or freelance auditing
- Pricing audit services and developing service offerings
- Building client proposals and audit scoping documents
- Using client testimonials to grow your reputation
- Earning additional certifications (e.g. ISO 22301, ISO 27701)
- Balancing in-house and third-party audit roles
- Developing a personal brand as a trusted auditor
- Preparing for interviews at global consulting firms
- Writing post-audit case studies for professional visibility
- Staying updated via industry publications and alerts
Module 14: Certification Preparation and Final Assessment - Review of key exam domains and competency areas
- Questions on lead auditor responsibilities and ethics
- Scenario-based problem solving for audit challenges
- Interpreting ambiguous control clauses in real context
- Time management strategies for written assessments
- Multiple-choice and short-answer question frameworks
- How to structure long-form responses
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Final checklist: have you mastered all requirements?
- Practice assessment with detailed feedback model
- Access to downloadable flashcards and study aids
- Progress tracking and knowledge gap identification
- Simulation of real certification-style questions
- Final readiness evaluation and confidence checklist
- Earn your Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service
Module 1: Foundations of Information Security and ISO Standards - Understanding the evolution of information security threats
- Core principles of confidentiality, integrity, and availability
- Overview of international standards: ISO IEC 27000 series
- Differences between ISO IEC 27001, 27002, and 27005
- Historical context of ISO IEC 27001 certification development
- Global adoption trends and industry-specific applications
- Regulatory landscape and alignment with GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA
- The role of information security in business continuity
- Integrating ISMS with enterprise risk management
- Fundamental terminology and definitions used in ISO 27001
Module 2: Structure and Objectives of ISO IEC 27001 - Detailed breakdown of ISO IEC 27001:2022 main clauses
- Clause 4: Context of the organisation and understanding stakeholder needs
- Clause 5: Leadership responsibilities and commitment to ISMS
- Clause 6: Planning for risk treatment and objectives
- Clause 7: Support processes including resources, competence, and awareness
- Clause 8: Operation of the ISMS including change management
- Clause 9: Performance evaluation and monitoring activities
- Clause 10: Continual improvement and nonconformity handling
- Linking ISMS policy to strategic business goals
- Defining scope and boundaries in real-world environments
Module 3: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 1 (A.5 to A.8) - A.5.1 Information security policies: development and review cycles
- A.5.2 Policy communication and employee acknowledgment
- A.6.1 Organisational roles and segregation of duties
- A.6.2 Mobile device security policies and remote access
- A.6.3 Teleworking security controls and risk mitigation
- A.7.1 Pre-employment screening and background checks
- A.7.2 Information security awareness and training programs
- A.7.3 Disciplinary process for policy violations
- A.7.4 Termination and change of employment procedures
- A.8.1 Asset inventory and asset ownership
- A.8.2 Classification of information and labelling
- A.8.3 Labelling and handling of sensitive documents
- A.8.4 Media handling and disposal protocols
- A.8.5 Media storage and encryption standards
- A.8.6 Sanitisation and secure disposal of media
- A.8.7 Clear desk and clear screen policies
- A.8.8 Data leakage prevention techniques
- A.8.9 Use of cryptography to protect data at rest
- A.8.10 Data masking and anonymisation in testing environments
- A.8.11 Logging and monitoring of data access
- A.8.12 Configuration management baselines
- A.8.13 Information transfer policies
- A.8.14 Electronic messaging security standards
- A.8.15 Confidentiality agreements and NDAs
Module 4: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 2 (A.9 to A.12) - A.9.1 Access control policy design and enforcement
- A.9.2 User registration and provisioning workflows
- A.9.3 Privileged access management and just-in-time access
- A.9.4 Access rights review and periodic recertification
- A.9.5 Removal or adjustment of access rights
- A.9.6 Management of secret authentication information
- A.9.7 Multi-factor authentication implementation
- A.9.8 Use of password managers and vaults
- A.9.9 User identification and session timeouts
- A.9.10 Secure login procedures and screen locking
- A.9.11 Access control to network services
- A.9.12 Secure authentication for remote access
- A.9.13 Operating system access control policies
- A.9.14 Access control to application and system interfaces
- A.9.15 Access control to source code
- A.9.16 Monitoring of access attempts and anomalies
- A.9.17 Secure coding practices and identity integration
- A.10.1 Cryptographic control policies and governance
- A.10.2 Key management lifecycle
- A.10.3 Protection of private keys and certificates
- A.10.4 Use of digital signatures and audit trails
- A.10.5 Cryptographic software updates and patching
- A.11.1 Secure areas and physical access zones
- A.11.2 Physical security perimeters and barriers
- A.11.3 Secure delivery and loading areas
- A.11.4 Working in secure areas and visitor controls
- A.11.5 Protection against environmental threats
- A.11.6 Cabling security and electromagnetic protection
- A.11.7 Equipment siting and protection
- A.11.8 Equipment maintenance schedules
- A.11.9 Removal of assets from secure areas
- A.11.10 Equipment disposal and reuse procedures
- A.11.11 Unattended equipment policy
- A.11.12 Clear desk and screen policies enforcement
- A.11.13 Secure disposal or destruction of equipment
- A.11.14 Power supply continuity and backup power
- A.11.15 Fault tolerance and redundancy planning
- A.12.1 Monitoring tools and system logs
- A.12.2 Event log collection and retention policies
- A.12.3 Administrator and operator logs
- A.12.4 Protection of log information and centralised logging
- A.12.5 Control of administrative privileges
- A.12.6 Job separation and segregation of duties
- A.12.7 Change management processes for configuration items
- A.12.8 Capacity management for critical systems
- A.12.9 Event management and escalation procedures
- A.12.10 Vulnerability scanning and remediation tracking
- A.12.11 Audit logging and log review schedules
- A.12.12 Output data reconciliation and validation
- A.12.13 Malware protection mechanisms and layered defense
- A.12.14 Technical vulnerability management lifecycle
- A.12.15 Configuration management and hardening baselines
- A.12.16 Information system audit controls
- A.12.17 Independent reviews of system configurations
- A.12.18 Developer access to operational environments
- A.12.19 Secure development environment isolation
- A.12.20 Test data protection and sanitisation
Module 5: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 3 (A.13 to A.18) - A.13.1 Network controls policy and architecture design
- A.13.2 Segregation of networks and VLANs
- A.13.3 Web filtering and content inspection
- A.13.4 Secure authentication to network services
- A.13.5 Security of network services
- A.13.6 Network monitoring and intrusion detection
- A.13.7 Security of network devices and firmware
- A.13.8 Network access control (NAC) implementation
- A.13.9 Segregation in networks using firewalls
- A.13.10 Secure connections to external networks
- A.13.11 Secure development of network services
- A.13.12 Outsourced network services and SLAs
- A.14.1 Secure development policy and application lifecycle
- A.14.2 Security requirements in development
- A.14.3 Secure development environments
- A.14.4 Secure coding practices and training
- A.14.5 Secure system architecture and design
- A.14.6 Security in project management
- A.14.7 Secure installation of software
- A.14.8 Countermeasures against malicious code
- A.14.9 Management of technical vulnerabilities in software
- A.14.10 Web application security controls
- A.14.11 Security in software development environments
- A.14.12 Secure deployment of software
- A.14.13 Secure application service delivery
- A.14.14 Secure use of third-party software
- A.14.15 Secure API design and documentation
- A.15.1 Information security in supplier relationships
- A.15.2 Addressing security in supplier agreements
- A.15.3 Monitoring and reviewing supplier services
- A.15.4 Managing changes to supplier services
- A.15.5 Information and communication technology supply chain
- A.15.6 Monitoring supplier compliance with security
- A.15.7 Business continuity communication plans
- A.16.1 Incident management planning and roles
- A.16.2 Reporting information security events
- A.16.3 Assessment and decision on events
- A.16.4 Response to information security incidents
- A.16.5 Learning from incidents and root cause analysis
- A.16.6 Collection of evidence during incident response
- A.16.7 Communication on security incidents
- A.16.8 Assurance of forensic tools and methods
- A.17.1 Planning of information security continuity
- A.17.2 Implementing controls for continuity
- A.17.3 Test, assessment, and maintenance of continuity
- A.18.1 Independent review of information security
- A.18.2 Internal audit schedule and management
Module 6: Principles of Auditing and ISO 19011 Overview - Understanding the audit process lifecycle
- Definitions of audit, auditor, and audit criteria
- Types of audits: first party, second party, third party
- Roles and responsibilities of audit team members
- Attributes of an effective auditor
- Code of ethics and professional conduct
- Application of ISO 19011 guidelines in ISMS audits
- Planning and preparing for the audit
- Conducting opening and closing meetings
- Communication and interviewing techniques during on-site audits
- Handling audit findings impartially
- Reporting audit results with clarity and authority
- Follow-up and verification of corrective actions
- Integration of audit programs across frameworks
- Performance evaluation of audit teams
Module 7: Preparing for the Lead Auditor Role - Defining the scope and criteria of an ISO 27001 audit
- Developing a professional audit plan with timelines
- Resource allocation and audit team selection
- Risk-based planning and prioritisation of audit areas
- Coordination with process owners and stakeholders
- Documenting audit objectives and audit approach
- Use of checklists aligned with ISO 27001 clauses
- Selecting sampling methods for controls and records
- Preparing audit work packages
- Logistics for onsite and remote audit delivery
- Briefing audit teams and assigning responsibilities
- Setting expectations with auditee management
- Reviewing documented information prior to audit
- Analyzing previous audit reports and trends
- Confirming auditor competence and independence
Module 8: Conducting the Audit Fieldwork - Executing the audit according to the plan
- Opening meeting structure and agenda development
- Effective note-taking and evidence collection
- Interviewing techniques for technical and non-technical staff
- Asking open-ended and probing questions
- Observing control implementation in real time
- Distinguishing between evidence and assertions
- Validating control effectiveness through documentation
- Testing control outputs and operational consistency
- Identifying gaps and inconsistencies in process execution
- Handling resistance or defensiveness from auditees
- Managing time and moving efficiently between departments
- Using audit trails to verify compliance
- Refining findings during the audit cycle
- Collaborating with co-auditors and technical experts
Module 9: Reporting and Communicating Audit Findings - Classifying findings: conformities, opportunities, non-conformities
- Determining severity of non-conformities (minor vs major)
- Writing clear, concise, and objective audit observations
- Linking findings to specific ISO 27001 clauses
- Providing real-world examples of audit statements
- Ensuring findings are evidence-based and non-judgmental
- Avoiding ambiguity and emotional language
- Developing the executive summary for leadership
- Structuring the full audit report with appendices
- Using standardized templates for consistency
- Incorporating process diagrams and control maps
- Presenting findings to audit committee and board members
- Defending findings with confidence and precision
- Responding to pushback and requests for clarification
- Finalising report with stakeholder sign-off
Module 10: Post-Audit Activities and Follow-Up - Conducting the closing meeting effectively
- Communicating findings verbally before the report
- Obtaining management response to each finding
- Tracking corrective action plans and deadlines
- Verifying the adequacy and effectiveness of CA plans
- Remote and onsite verification of implemented fixes
- Analysing root causes using techniques like 5 Whys
- Issuing follow-up audit reports
- Closure of non-conformities and re-audit triggers
- Updating audit history and organisation records
- Feeding insights back into the ISMS improvement cycle
- Measuring customer satisfaction with audit services
- Updating the audit program based on outcomes
- Archiving audit documentation securely
- Lessons learned and team debriefing sessions
Module 11: Advanced Audit Techniques and Practical Simulations - Simulated audit of a financial services organisation
- Simulated audit of a healthcare provider under HIPAA
- Simulated audit of a cloud service provider
- Handling complex multi-site certifications
- Assessing outsourcing arrangements and supply chain risks
- Evaluating governance maturity using capability levels
- Using risk heatmaps to prioritise audit focus
- Applying the PDCA model during audit review
- Assessing continual improvement evidence
- Testing management review outputs for relevance
- Analysing internal audit performance metrics
- Validating top management commitment through interviews
- Reviewing risk treatment plans and cost-benefit analysis
- Interviewing CISOs and governance boards
- Evaluating audit independence and organisational structure
Module 12: Certification Process and CB Interaction - Understanding the role of Certification Bodies (CBs)
- Stage 1 vs Stage 2 audit objectives and documentation
- Preparing for surveillance and recertification audits
- Responding to CB findings and questions
- Submitting documentation to the CB in correct format
- Handling major nonconformities and certification delays
- Defending the organisation's risk treatment decisions
- Coordinating with external auditors and consultants
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in submissions
- Tracking certification timelines and milestones
- Managing audit days allocation and resource planning
- Understanding accreditation requirements of ANAB, UKAS, JAS-ANZ
- Preparing the organisation for unannounced audits
- Handling nonconformity appeals and disputes
- Maintaining certification through continual improvement
Module 13: Career Development and Professional Advancement - Positioning your ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification on LinkedIn
- Highlighting audit experience on resumes and CVs
- Networking with certification professionals and forums
- Joining ISACA, (ISC)², or local security groups
- Becoming a trainer or mentor in information security
- Transitioning to consulting or freelance auditing
- Pricing audit services and developing service offerings
- Building client proposals and audit scoping documents
- Using client testimonials to grow your reputation
- Earning additional certifications (e.g. ISO 22301, ISO 27701)
- Balancing in-house and third-party audit roles
- Developing a personal brand as a trusted auditor
- Preparing for interviews at global consulting firms
- Writing post-audit case studies for professional visibility
- Staying updated via industry publications and alerts
Module 14: Certification Preparation and Final Assessment - Review of key exam domains and competency areas
- Questions on lead auditor responsibilities and ethics
- Scenario-based problem solving for audit challenges
- Interpreting ambiguous control clauses in real context
- Time management strategies for written assessments
- Multiple-choice and short-answer question frameworks
- How to structure long-form responses
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Final checklist: have you mastered all requirements?
- Practice assessment with detailed feedback model
- Access to downloadable flashcards and study aids
- Progress tracking and knowledge gap identification
- Simulation of real certification-style questions
- Final readiness evaluation and confidence checklist
- Earn your Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service
- Detailed breakdown of ISO IEC 27001:2022 main clauses
- Clause 4: Context of the organisation and understanding stakeholder needs
- Clause 5: Leadership responsibilities and commitment to ISMS
- Clause 6: Planning for risk treatment and objectives
- Clause 7: Support processes including resources, competence, and awareness
- Clause 8: Operation of the ISMS including change management
- Clause 9: Performance evaluation and monitoring activities
- Clause 10: Continual improvement and nonconformity handling
- Linking ISMS policy to strategic business goals
- Defining scope and boundaries in real-world environments
Module 3: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 1 (A.5 to A.8) - A.5.1 Information security policies: development and review cycles
- A.5.2 Policy communication and employee acknowledgment
- A.6.1 Organisational roles and segregation of duties
- A.6.2 Mobile device security policies and remote access
- A.6.3 Teleworking security controls and risk mitigation
- A.7.1 Pre-employment screening and background checks
- A.7.2 Information security awareness and training programs
- A.7.3 Disciplinary process for policy violations
- A.7.4 Termination and change of employment procedures
- A.8.1 Asset inventory and asset ownership
- A.8.2 Classification of information and labelling
- A.8.3 Labelling and handling of sensitive documents
- A.8.4 Media handling and disposal protocols
- A.8.5 Media storage and encryption standards
- A.8.6 Sanitisation and secure disposal of media
- A.8.7 Clear desk and clear screen policies
- A.8.8 Data leakage prevention techniques
- A.8.9 Use of cryptography to protect data at rest
- A.8.10 Data masking and anonymisation in testing environments
- A.8.11 Logging and monitoring of data access
- A.8.12 Configuration management baselines
- A.8.13 Information transfer policies
- A.8.14 Electronic messaging security standards
- A.8.15 Confidentiality agreements and NDAs
Module 4: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 2 (A.9 to A.12) - A.9.1 Access control policy design and enforcement
- A.9.2 User registration and provisioning workflows
- A.9.3 Privileged access management and just-in-time access
- A.9.4 Access rights review and periodic recertification
- A.9.5 Removal or adjustment of access rights
- A.9.6 Management of secret authentication information
- A.9.7 Multi-factor authentication implementation
- A.9.8 Use of password managers and vaults
- A.9.9 User identification and session timeouts
- A.9.10 Secure login procedures and screen locking
- A.9.11 Access control to network services
- A.9.12 Secure authentication for remote access
- A.9.13 Operating system access control policies
- A.9.14 Access control to application and system interfaces
- A.9.15 Access control to source code
- A.9.16 Monitoring of access attempts and anomalies
- A.9.17 Secure coding practices and identity integration
- A.10.1 Cryptographic control policies and governance
- A.10.2 Key management lifecycle
- A.10.3 Protection of private keys and certificates
- A.10.4 Use of digital signatures and audit trails
- A.10.5 Cryptographic software updates and patching
- A.11.1 Secure areas and physical access zones
- A.11.2 Physical security perimeters and barriers
- A.11.3 Secure delivery and loading areas
- A.11.4 Working in secure areas and visitor controls
- A.11.5 Protection against environmental threats
- A.11.6 Cabling security and electromagnetic protection
- A.11.7 Equipment siting and protection
- A.11.8 Equipment maintenance schedules
- A.11.9 Removal of assets from secure areas
- A.11.10 Equipment disposal and reuse procedures
- A.11.11 Unattended equipment policy
- A.11.12 Clear desk and screen policies enforcement
- A.11.13 Secure disposal or destruction of equipment
- A.11.14 Power supply continuity and backup power
- A.11.15 Fault tolerance and redundancy planning
- A.12.1 Monitoring tools and system logs
- A.12.2 Event log collection and retention policies
- A.12.3 Administrator and operator logs
- A.12.4 Protection of log information and centralised logging
- A.12.5 Control of administrative privileges
- A.12.6 Job separation and segregation of duties
- A.12.7 Change management processes for configuration items
- A.12.8 Capacity management for critical systems
- A.12.9 Event management and escalation procedures
- A.12.10 Vulnerability scanning and remediation tracking
- A.12.11 Audit logging and log review schedules
- A.12.12 Output data reconciliation and validation
- A.12.13 Malware protection mechanisms and layered defense
- A.12.14 Technical vulnerability management lifecycle
- A.12.15 Configuration management and hardening baselines
- A.12.16 Information system audit controls
- A.12.17 Independent reviews of system configurations
- A.12.18 Developer access to operational environments
- A.12.19 Secure development environment isolation
- A.12.20 Test data protection and sanitisation
Module 5: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 3 (A.13 to A.18) - A.13.1 Network controls policy and architecture design
- A.13.2 Segregation of networks and VLANs
- A.13.3 Web filtering and content inspection
- A.13.4 Secure authentication to network services
- A.13.5 Security of network services
- A.13.6 Network monitoring and intrusion detection
- A.13.7 Security of network devices and firmware
- A.13.8 Network access control (NAC) implementation
- A.13.9 Segregation in networks using firewalls
- A.13.10 Secure connections to external networks
- A.13.11 Secure development of network services
- A.13.12 Outsourced network services and SLAs
- A.14.1 Secure development policy and application lifecycle
- A.14.2 Security requirements in development
- A.14.3 Secure development environments
- A.14.4 Secure coding practices and training
- A.14.5 Secure system architecture and design
- A.14.6 Security in project management
- A.14.7 Secure installation of software
- A.14.8 Countermeasures against malicious code
- A.14.9 Management of technical vulnerabilities in software
- A.14.10 Web application security controls
- A.14.11 Security in software development environments
- A.14.12 Secure deployment of software
- A.14.13 Secure application service delivery
- A.14.14 Secure use of third-party software
- A.14.15 Secure API design and documentation
- A.15.1 Information security in supplier relationships
- A.15.2 Addressing security in supplier agreements
- A.15.3 Monitoring and reviewing supplier services
- A.15.4 Managing changes to supplier services
- A.15.5 Information and communication technology supply chain
- A.15.6 Monitoring supplier compliance with security
- A.15.7 Business continuity communication plans
- A.16.1 Incident management planning and roles
- A.16.2 Reporting information security events
- A.16.3 Assessment and decision on events
- A.16.4 Response to information security incidents
- A.16.5 Learning from incidents and root cause analysis
- A.16.6 Collection of evidence during incident response
- A.16.7 Communication on security incidents
- A.16.8 Assurance of forensic tools and methods
- A.17.1 Planning of information security continuity
- A.17.2 Implementing controls for continuity
- A.17.3 Test, assessment, and maintenance of continuity
- A.18.1 Independent review of information security
- A.18.2 Internal audit schedule and management
Module 6: Principles of Auditing and ISO 19011 Overview - Understanding the audit process lifecycle
- Definitions of audit, auditor, and audit criteria
- Types of audits: first party, second party, third party
- Roles and responsibilities of audit team members
- Attributes of an effective auditor
- Code of ethics and professional conduct
- Application of ISO 19011 guidelines in ISMS audits
- Planning and preparing for the audit
- Conducting opening and closing meetings
- Communication and interviewing techniques during on-site audits
- Handling audit findings impartially
- Reporting audit results with clarity and authority
- Follow-up and verification of corrective actions
- Integration of audit programs across frameworks
- Performance evaluation of audit teams
Module 7: Preparing for the Lead Auditor Role - Defining the scope and criteria of an ISO 27001 audit
- Developing a professional audit plan with timelines
- Resource allocation and audit team selection
- Risk-based planning and prioritisation of audit areas
- Coordination with process owners and stakeholders
- Documenting audit objectives and audit approach
- Use of checklists aligned with ISO 27001 clauses
- Selecting sampling methods for controls and records
- Preparing audit work packages
- Logistics for onsite and remote audit delivery
- Briefing audit teams and assigning responsibilities
- Setting expectations with auditee management
- Reviewing documented information prior to audit
- Analyzing previous audit reports and trends
- Confirming auditor competence and independence
Module 8: Conducting the Audit Fieldwork - Executing the audit according to the plan
- Opening meeting structure and agenda development
- Effective note-taking and evidence collection
- Interviewing techniques for technical and non-technical staff
- Asking open-ended and probing questions
- Observing control implementation in real time
- Distinguishing between evidence and assertions
- Validating control effectiveness through documentation
- Testing control outputs and operational consistency
- Identifying gaps and inconsistencies in process execution
- Handling resistance or defensiveness from auditees
- Managing time and moving efficiently between departments
- Using audit trails to verify compliance
- Refining findings during the audit cycle
- Collaborating with co-auditors and technical experts
Module 9: Reporting and Communicating Audit Findings - Classifying findings: conformities, opportunities, non-conformities
- Determining severity of non-conformities (minor vs major)
- Writing clear, concise, and objective audit observations
- Linking findings to specific ISO 27001 clauses
- Providing real-world examples of audit statements
- Ensuring findings are evidence-based and non-judgmental
- Avoiding ambiguity and emotional language
- Developing the executive summary for leadership
- Structuring the full audit report with appendices
- Using standardized templates for consistency
- Incorporating process diagrams and control maps
- Presenting findings to audit committee and board members
- Defending findings with confidence and precision
- Responding to pushback and requests for clarification
- Finalising report with stakeholder sign-off
Module 10: Post-Audit Activities and Follow-Up - Conducting the closing meeting effectively
- Communicating findings verbally before the report
- Obtaining management response to each finding
- Tracking corrective action plans and deadlines
- Verifying the adequacy and effectiveness of CA plans
- Remote and onsite verification of implemented fixes
- Analysing root causes using techniques like 5 Whys
- Issuing follow-up audit reports
- Closure of non-conformities and re-audit triggers
- Updating audit history and organisation records
- Feeding insights back into the ISMS improvement cycle
- Measuring customer satisfaction with audit services
- Updating the audit program based on outcomes
- Archiving audit documentation securely
- Lessons learned and team debriefing sessions
Module 11: Advanced Audit Techniques and Practical Simulations - Simulated audit of a financial services organisation
- Simulated audit of a healthcare provider under HIPAA
- Simulated audit of a cloud service provider
- Handling complex multi-site certifications
- Assessing outsourcing arrangements and supply chain risks
- Evaluating governance maturity using capability levels
- Using risk heatmaps to prioritise audit focus
- Applying the PDCA model during audit review
- Assessing continual improvement evidence
- Testing management review outputs for relevance
- Analysing internal audit performance metrics
- Validating top management commitment through interviews
- Reviewing risk treatment plans and cost-benefit analysis
- Interviewing CISOs and governance boards
- Evaluating audit independence and organisational structure
Module 12: Certification Process and CB Interaction - Understanding the role of Certification Bodies (CBs)
- Stage 1 vs Stage 2 audit objectives and documentation
- Preparing for surveillance and recertification audits
- Responding to CB findings and questions
- Submitting documentation to the CB in correct format
- Handling major nonconformities and certification delays
- Defending the organisation's risk treatment decisions
- Coordinating with external auditors and consultants
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in submissions
- Tracking certification timelines and milestones
- Managing audit days allocation and resource planning
- Understanding accreditation requirements of ANAB, UKAS, JAS-ANZ
- Preparing the organisation for unannounced audits
- Handling nonconformity appeals and disputes
- Maintaining certification through continual improvement
Module 13: Career Development and Professional Advancement - Positioning your ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification on LinkedIn
- Highlighting audit experience on resumes and CVs
- Networking with certification professionals and forums
- Joining ISACA, (ISC)², or local security groups
- Becoming a trainer or mentor in information security
- Transitioning to consulting or freelance auditing
- Pricing audit services and developing service offerings
- Building client proposals and audit scoping documents
- Using client testimonials to grow your reputation
- Earning additional certifications (e.g. ISO 22301, ISO 27701)
- Balancing in-house and third-party audit roles
- Developing a personal brand as a trusted auditor
- Preparing for interviews at global consulting firms
- Writing post-audit case studies for professional visibility
- Staying updated via industry publications and alerts
Module 14: Certification Preparation and Final Assessment - Review of key exam domains and competency areas
- Questions on lead auditor responsibilities and ethics
- Scenario-based problem solving for audit challenges
- Interpreting ambiguous control clauses in real context
- Time management strategies for written assessments
- Multiple-choice and short-answer question frameworks
- How to structure long-form responses
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Final checklist: have you mastered all requirements?
- Practice assessment with detailed feedback model
- Access to downloadable flashcards and study aids
- Progress tracking and knowledge gap identification
- Simulation of real certification-style questions
- Final readiness evaluation and confidence checklist
- Earn your Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service
- A.9.1 Access control policy design and enforcement
- A.9.2 User registration and provisioning workflows
- A.9.3 Privileged access management and just-in-time access
- A.9.4 Access rights review and periodic recertification
- A.9.5 Removal or adjustment of access rights
- A.9.6 Management of secret authentication information
- A.9.7 Multi-factor authentication implementation
- A.9.8 Use of password managers and vaults
- A.9.9 User identification and session timeouts
- A.9.10 Secure login procedures and screen locking
- A.9.11 Access control to network services
- A.9.12 Secure authentication for remote access
- A.9.13 Operating system access control policies
- A.9.14 Access control to application and system interfaces
- A.9.15 Access control to source code
- A.9.16 Monitoring of access attempts and anomalies
- A.9.17 Secure coding practices and identity integration
- A.10.1 Cryptographic control policies and governance
- A.10.2 Key management lifecycle
- A.10.3 Protection of private keys and certificates
- A.10.4 Use of digital signatures and audit trails
- A.10.5 Cryptographic software updates and patching
- A.11.1 Secure areas and physical access zones
- A.11.2 Physical security perimeters and barriers
- A.11.3 Secure delivery and loading areas
- A.11.4 Working in secure areas and visitor controls
- A.11.5 Protection against environmental threats
- A.11.6 Cabling security and electromagnetic protection
- A.11.7 Equipment siting and protection
- A.11.8 Equipment maintenance schedules
- A.11.9 Removal of assets from secure areas
- A.11.10 Equipment disposal and reuse procedures
- A.11.11 Unattended equipment policy
- A.11.12 Clear desk and screen policies enforcement
- A.11.13 Secure disposal or destruction of equipment
- A.11.14 Power supply continuity and backup power
- A.11.15 Fault tolerance and redundancy planning
- A.12.1 Monitoring tools and system logs
- A.12.2 Event log collection and retention policies
- A.12.3 Administrator and operator logs
- A.12.4 Protection of log information and centralised logging
- A.12.5 Control of administrative privileges
- A.12.6 Job separation and segregation of duties
- A.12.7 Change management processes for configuration items
- A.12.8 Capacity management for critical systems
- A.12.9 Event management and escalation procedures
- A.12.10 Vulnerability scanning and remediation tracking
- A.12.11 Audit logging and log review schedules
- A.12.12 Output data reconciliation and validation
- A.12.13 Malware protection mechanisms and layered defense
- A.12.14 Technical vulnerability management lifecycle
- A.12.15 Configuration management and hardening baselines
- A.12.16 Information system audit controls
- A.12.17 Independent reviews of system configurations
- A.12.18 Developer access to operational environments
- A.12.19 Secure development environment isolation
- A.12.20 Test data protection and sanitisation
Module 5: Annex A Controls Deep Dive – Part 3 (A.13 to A.18) - A.13.1 Network controls policy and architecture design
- A.13.2 Segregation of networks and VLANs
- A.13.3 Web filtering and content inspection
- A.13.4 Secure authentication to network services
- A.13.5 Security of network services
- A.13.6 Network monitoring and intrusion detection
- A.13.7 Security of network devices and firmware
- A.13.8 Network access control (NAC) implementation
- A.13.9 Segregation in networks using firewalls
- A.13.10 Secure connections to external networks
- A.13.11 Secure development of network services
- A.13.12 Outsourced network services and SLAs
- A.14.1 Secure development policy and application lifecycle
- A.14.2 Security requirements in development
- A.14.3 Secure development environments
- A.14.4 Secure coding practices and training
- A.14.5 Secure system architecture and design
- A.14.6 Security in project management
- A.14.7 Secure installation of software
- A.14.8 Countermeasures against malicious code
- A.14.9 Management of technical vulnerabilities in software
- A.14.10 Web application security controls
- A.14.11 Security in software development environments
- A.14.12 Secure deployment of software
- A.14.13 Secure application service delivery
- A.14.14 Secure use of third-party software
- A.14.15 Secure API design and documentation
- A.15.1 Information security in supplier relationships
- A.15.2 Addressing security in supplier agreements
- A.15.3 Monitoring and reviewing supplier services
- A.15.4 Managing changes to supplier services
- A.15.5 Information and communication technology supply chain
- A.15.6 Monitoring supplier compliance with security
- A.15.7 Business continuity communication plans
- A.16.1 Incident management planning and roles
- A.16.2 Reporting information security events
- A.16.3 Assessment and decision on events
- A.16.4 Response to information security incidents
- A.16.5 Learning from incidents and root cause analysis
- A.16.6 Collection of evidence during incident response
- A.16.7 Communication on security incidents
- A.16.8 Assurance of forensic tools and methods
- A.17.1 Planning of information security continuity
- A.17.2 Implementing controls for continuity
- A.17.3 Test, assessment, and maintenance of continuity
- A.18.1 Independent review of information security
- A.18.2 Internal audit schedule and management
Module 6: Principles of Auditing and ISO 19011 Overview - Understanding the audit process lifecycle
- Definitions of audit, auditor, and audit criteria
- Types of audits: first party, second party, third party
- Roles and responsibilities of audit team members
- Attributes of an effective auditor
- Code of ethics and professional conduct
- Application of ISO 19011 guidelines in ISMS audits
- Planning and preparing for the audit
- Conducting opening and closing meetings
- Communication and interviewing techniques during on-site audits
- Handling audit findings impartially
- Reporting audit results with clarity and authority
- Follow-up and verification of corrective actions
- Integration of audit programs across frameworks
- Performance evaluation of audit teams
Module 7: Preparing for the Lead Auditor Role - Defining the scope and criteria of an ISO 27001 audit
- Developing a professional audit plan with timelines
- Resource allocation and audit team selection
- Risk-based planning and prioritisation of audit areas
- Coordination with process owners and stakeholders
- Documenting audit objectives and audit approach
- Use of checklists aligned with ISO 27001 clauses
- Selecting sampling methods for controls and records
- Preparing audit work packages
- Logistics for onsite and remote audit delivery
- Briefing audit teams and assigning responsibilities
- Setting expectations with auditee management
- Reviewing documented information prior to audit
- Analyzing previous audit reports and trends
- Confirming auditor competence and independence
Module 8: Conducting the Audit Fieldwork - Executing the audit according to the plan
- Opening meeting structure and agenda development
- Effective note-taking and evidence collection
- Interviewing techniques for technical and non-technical staff
- Asking open-ended and probing questions
- Observing control implementation in real time
- Distinguishing between evidence and assertions
- Validating control effectiveness through documentation
- Testing control outputs and operational consistency
- Identifying gaps and inconsistencies in process execution
- Handling resistance or defensiveness from auditees
- Managing time and moving efficiently between departments
- Using audit trails to verify compliance
- Refining findings during the audit cycle
- Collaborating with co-auditors and technical experts
Module 9: Reporting and Communicating Audit Findings - Classifying findings: conformities, opportunities, non-conformities
- Determining severity of non-conformities (minor vs major)
- Writing clear, concise, and objective audit observations
- Linking findings to specific ISO 27001 clauses
- Providing real-world examples of audit statements
- Ensuring findings are evidence-based and non-judgmental
- Avoiding ambiguity and emotional language
- Developing the executive summary for leadership
- Structuring the full audit report with appendices
- Using standardized templates for consistency
- Incorporating process diagrams and control maps
- Presenting findings to audit committee and board members
- Defending findings with confidence and precision
- Responding to pushback and requests for clarification
- Finalising report with stakeholder sign-off
Module 10: Post-Audit Activities and Follow-Up - Conducting the closing meeting effectively
- Communicating findings verbally before the report
- Obtaining management response to each finding
- Tracking corrective action plans and deadlines
- Verifying the adequacy and effectiveness of CA plans
- Remote and onsite verification of implemented fixes
- Analysing root causes using techniques like 5 Whys
- Issuing follow-up audit reports
- Closure of non-conformities and re-audit triggers
- Updating audit history and organisation records
- Feeding insights back into the ISMS improvement cycle
- Measuring customer satisfaction with audit services
- Updating the audit program based on outcomes
- Archiving audit documentation securely
- Lessons learned and team debriefing sessions
Module 11: Advanced Audit Techniques and Practical Simulations - Simulated audit of a financial services organisation
- Simulated audit of a healthcare provider under HIPAA
- Simulated audit of a cloud service provider
- Handling complex multi-site certifications
- Assessing outsourcing arrangements and supply chain risks
- Evaluating governance maturity using capability levels
- Using risk heatmaps to prioritise audit focus
- Applying the PDCA model during audit review
- Assessing continual improvement evidence
- Testing management review outputs for relevance
- Analysing internal audit performance metrics
- Validating top management commitment through interviews
- Reviewing risk treatment plans and cost-benefit analysis
- Interviewing CISOs and governance boards
- Evaluating audit independence and organisational structure
Module 12: Certification Process and CB Interaction - Understanding the role of Certification Bodies (CBs)
- Stage 1 vs Stage 2 audit objectives and documentation
- Preparing for surveillance and recertification audits
- Responding to CB findings and questions
- Submitting documentation to the CB in correct format
- Handling major nonconformities and certification delays
- Defending the organisation's risk treatment decisions
- Coordinating with external auditors and consultants
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in submissions
- Tracking certification timelines and milestones
- Managing audit days allocation and resource planning
- Understanding accreditation requirements of ANAB, UKAS, JAS-ANZ
- Preparing the organisation for unannounced audits
- Handling nonconformity appeals and disputes
- Maintaining certification through continual improvement
Module 13: Career Development and Professional Advancement - Positioning your ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification on LinkedIn
- Highlighting audit experience on resumes and CVs
- Networking with certification professionals and forums
- Joining ISACA, (ISC)², or local security groups
- Becoming a trainer or mentor in information security
- Transitioning to consulting or freelance auditing
- Pricing audit services and developing service offerings
- Building client proposals and audit scoping documents
- Using client testimonials to grow your reputation
- Earning additional certifications (e.g. ISO 22301, ISO 27701)
- Balancing in-house and third-party audit roles
- Developing a personal brand as a trusted auditor
- Preparing for interviews at global consulting firms
- Writing post-audit case studies for professional visibility
- Staying updated via industry publications and alerts
Module 14: Certification Preparation and Final Assessment - Review of key exam domains and competency areas
- Questions on lead auditor responsibilities and ethics
- Scenario-based problem solving for audit challenges
- Interpreting ambiguous control clauses in real context
- Time management strategies for written assessments
- Multiple-choice and short-answer question frameworks
- How to structure long-form responses
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Final checklist: have you mastered all requirements?
- Practice assessment with detailed feedback model
- Access to downloadable flashcards and study aids
- Progress tracking and knowledge gap identification
- Simulation of real certification-style questions
- Final readiness evaluation and confidence checklist
- Earn your Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service
- Understanding the audit process lifecycle
- Definitions of audit, auditor, and audit criteria
- Types of audits: first party, second party, third party
- Roles and responsibilities of audit team members
- Attributes of an effective auditor
- Code of ethics and professional conduct
- Application of ISO 19011 guidelines in ISMS audits
- Planning and preparing for the audit
- Conducting opening and closing meetings
- Communication and interviewing techniques during on-site audits
- Handling audit findings impartially
- Reporting audit results with clarity and authority
- Follow-up and verification of corrective actions
- Integration of audit programs across frameworks
- Performance evaluation of audit teams
Module 7: Preparing for the Lead Auditor Role - Defining the scope and criteria of an ISO 27001 audit
- Developing a professional audit plan with timelines
- Resource allocation and audit team selection
- Risk-based planning and prioritisation of audit areas
- Coordination with process owners and stakeholders
- Documenting audit objectives and audit approach
- Use of checklists aligned with ISO 27001 clauses
- Selecting sampling methods for controls and records
- Preparing audit work packages
- Logistics for onsite and remote audit delivery
- Briefing audit teams and assigning responsibilities
- Setting expectations with auditee management
- Reviewing documented information prior to audit
- Analyzing previous audit reports and trends
- Confirming auditor competence and independence
Module 8: Conducting the Audit Fieldwork - Executing the audit according to the plan
- Opening meeting structure and agenda development
- Effective note-taking and evidence collection
- Interviewing techniques for technical and non-technical staff
- Asking open-ended and probing questions
- Observing control implementation in real time
- Distinguishing between evidence and assertions
- Validating control effectiveness through documentation
- Testing control outputs and operational consistency
- Identifying gaps and inconsistencies in process execution
- Handling resistance or defensiveness from auditees
- Managing time and moving efficiently between departments
- Using audit trails to verify compliance
- Refining findings during the audit cycle
- Collaborating with co-auditors and technical experts
Module 9: Reporting and Communicating Audit Findings - Classifying findings: conformities, opportunities, non-conformities
- Determining severity of non-conformities (minor vs major)
- Writing clear, concise, and objective audit observations
- Linking findings to specific ISO 27001 clauses
- Providing real-world examples of audit statements
- Ensuring findings are evidence-based and non-judgmental
- Avoiding ambiguity and emotional language
- Developing the executive summary for leadership
- Structuring the full audit report with appendices
- Using standardized templates for consistency
- Incorporating process diagrams and control maps
- Presenting findings to audit committee and board members
- Defending findings with confidence and precision
- Responding to pushback and requests for clarification
- Finalising report with stakeholder sign-off
Module 10: Post-Audit Activities and Follow-Up - Conducting the closing meeting effectively
- Communicating findings verbally before the report
- Obtaining management response to each finding
- Tracking corrective action plans and deadlines
- Verifying the adequacy and effectiveness of CA plans
- Remote and onsite verification of implemented fixes
- Analysing root causes using techniques like 5 Whys
- Issuing follow-up audit reports
- Closure of non-conformities and re-audit triggers
- Updating audit history and organisation records
- Feeding insights back into the ISMS improvement cycle
- Measuring customer satisfaction with audit services
- Updating the audit program based on outcomes
- Archiving audit documentation securely
- Lessons learned and team debriefing sessions
Module 11: Advanced Audit Techniques and Practical Simulations - Simulated audit of a financial services organisation
- Simulated audit of a healthcare provider under HIPAA
- Simulated audit of a cloud service provider
- Handling complex multi-site certifications
- Assessing outsourcing arrangements and supply chain risks
- Evaluating governance maturity using capability levels
- Using risk heatmaps to prioritise audit focus
- Applying the PDCA model during audit review
- Assessing continual improvement evidence
- Testing management review outputs for relevance
- Analysing internal audit performance metrics
- Validating top management commitment through interviews
- Reviewing risk treatment plans and cost-benefit analysis
- Interviewing CISOs and governance boards
- Evaluating audit independence and organisational structure
Module 12: Certification Process and CB Interaction - Understanding the role of Certification Bodies (CBs)
- Stage 1 vs Stage 2 audit objectives and documentation
- Preparing for surveillance and recertification audits
- Responding to CB findings and questions
- Submitting documentation to the CB in correct format
- Handling major nonconformities and certification delays
- Defending the organisation's risk treatment decisions
- Coordinating with external auditors and consultants
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in submissions
- Tracking certification timelines and milestones
- Managing audit days allocation and resource planning
- Understanding accreditation requirements of ANAB, UKAS, JAS-ANZ
- Preparing the organisation for unannounced audits
- Handling nonconformity appeals and disputes
- Maintaining certification through continual improvement
Module 13: Career Development and Professional Advancement - Positioning your ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification on LinkedIn
- Highlighting audit experience on resumes and CVs
- Networking with certification professionals and forums
- Joining ISACA, (ISC)², or local security groups
- Becoming a trainer or mentor in information security
- Transitioning to consulting or freelance auditing
- Pricing audit services and developing service offerings
- Building client proposals and audit scoping documents
- Using client testimonials to grow your reputation
- Earning additional certifications (e.g. ISO 22301, ISO 27701)
- Balancing in-house and third-party audit roles
- Developing a personal brand as a trusted auditor
- Preparing for interviews at global consulting firms
- Writing post-audit case studies for professional visibility
- Staying updated via industry publications and alerts
Module 14: Certification Preparation and Final Assessment - Review of key exam domains and competency areas
- Questions on lead auditor responsibilities and ethics
- Scenario-based problem solving for audit challenges
- Interpreting ambiguous control clauses in real context
- Time management strategies for written assessments
- Multiple-choice and short-answer question frameworks
- How to structure long-form responses
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Final checklist: have you mastered all requirements?
- Practice assessment with detailed feedback model
- Access to downloadable flashcards and study aids
- Progress tracking and knowledge gap identification
- Simulation of real certification-style questions
- Final readiness evaluation and confidence checklist
- Earn your Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service
- Executing the audit according to the plan
- Opening meeting structure and agenda development
- Effective note-taking and evidence collection
- Interviewing techniques for technical and non-technical staff
- Asking open-ended and probing questions
- Observing control implementation in real time
- Distinguishing between evidence and assertions
- Validating control effectiveness through documentation
- Testing control outputs and operational consistency
- Identifying gaps and inconsistencies in process execution
- Handling resistance or defensiveness from auditees
- Managing time and moving efficiently between departments
- Using audit trails to verify compliance
- Refining findings during the audit cycle
- Collaborating with co-auditors and technical experts
Module 9: Reporting and Communicating Audit Findings - Classifying findings: conformities, opportunities, non-conformities
- Determining severity of non-conformities (minor vs major)
- Writing clear, concise, and objective audit observations
- Linking findings to specific ISO 27001 clauses
- Providing real-world examples of audit statements
- Ensuring findings are evidence-based and non-judgmental
- Avoiding ambiguity and emotional language
- Developing the executive summary for leadership
- Structuring the full audit report with appendices
- Using standardized templates for consistency
- Incorporating process diagrams and control maps
- Presenting findings to audit committee and board members
- Defending findings with confidence and precision
- Responding to pushback and requests for clarification
- Finalising report with stakeholder sign-off
Module 10: Post-Audit Activities and Follow-Up - Conducting the closing meeting effectively
- Communicating findings verbally before the report
- Obtaining management response to each finding
- Tracking corrective action plans and deadlines
- Verifying the adequacy and effectiveness of CA plans
- Remote and onsite verification of implemented fixes
- Analysing root causes using techniques like 5 Whys
- Issuing follow-up audit reports
- Closure of non-conformities and re-audit triggers
- Updating audit history and organisation records
- Feeding insights back into the ISMS improvement cycle
- Measuring customer satisfaction with audit services
- Updating the audit program based on outcomes
- Archiving audit documentation securely
- Lessons learned and team debriefing sessions
Module 11: Advanced Audit Techniques and Practical Simulations - Simulated audit of a financial services organisation
- Simulated audit of a healthcare provider under HIPAA
- Simulated audit of a cloud service provider
- Handling complex multi-site certifications
- Assessing outsourcing arrangements and supply chain risks
- Evaluating governance maturity using capability levels
- Using risk heatmaps to prioritise audit focus
- Applying the PDCA model during audit review
- Assessing continual improvement evidence
- Testing management review outputs for relevance
- Analysing internal audit performance metrics
- Validating top management commitment through interviews
- Reviewing risk treatment plans and cost-benefit analysis
- Interviewing CISOs and governance boards
- Evaluating audit independence and organisational structure
Module 12: Certification Process and CB Interaction - Understanding the role of Certification Bodies (CBs)
- Stage 1 vs Stage 2 audit objectives and documentation
- Preparing for surveillance and recertification audits
- Responding to CB findings and questions
- Submitting documentation to the CB in correct format
- Handling major nonconformities and certification delays
- Defending the organisation's risk treatment decisions
- Coordinating with external auditors and consultants
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in submissions
- Tracking certification timelines and milestones
- Managing audit days allocation and resource planning
- Understanding accreditation requirements of ANAB, UKAS, JAS-ANZ
- Preparing the organisation for unannounced audits
- Handling nonconformity appeals and disputes
- Maintaining certification through continual improvement
Module 13: Career Development and Professional Advancement - Positioning your ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification on LinkedIn
- Highlighting audit experience on resumes and CVs
- Networking with certification professionals and forums
- Joining ISACA, (ISC)², or local security groups
- Becoming a trainer or mentor in information security
- Transitioning to consulting or freelance auditing
- Pricing audit services and developing service offerings
- Building client proposals and audit scoping documents
- Using client testimonials to grow your reputation
- Earning additional certifications (e.g. ISO 22301, ISO 27701)
- Balancing in-house and third-party audit roles
- Developing a personal brand as a trusted auditor
- Preparing for interviews at global consulting firms
- Writing post-audit case studies for professional visibility
- Staying updated via industry publications and alerts
Module 14: Certification Preparation and Final Assessment - Review of key exam domains and competency areas
- Questions on lead auditor responsibilities and ethics
- Scenario-based problem solving for audit challenges
- Interpreting ambiguous control clauses in real context
- Time management strategies for written assessments
- Multiple-choice and short-answer question frameworks
- How to structure long-form responses
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Final checklist: have you mastered all requirements?
- Practice assessment with detailed feedback model
- Access to downloadable flashcards and study aids
- Progress tracking and knowledge gap identification
- Simulation of real certification-style questions
- Final readiness evaluation and confidence checklist
- Earn your Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service
- Conducting the closing meeting effectively
- Communicating findings verbally before the report
- Obtaining management response to each finding
- Tracking corrective action plans and deadlines
- Verifying the adequacy and effectiveness of CA plans
- Remote and onsite verification of implemented fixes
- Analysing root causes using techniques like 5 Whys
- Issuing follow-up audit reports
- Closure of non-conformities and re-audit triggers
- Updating audit history and organisation records
- Feeding insights back into the ISMS improvement cycle
- Measuring customer satisfaction with audit services
- Updating the audit program based on outcomes
- Archiving audit documentation securely
- Lessons learned and team debriefing sessions
Module 11: Advanced Audit Techniques and Practical Simulations - Simulated audit of a financial services organisation
- Simulated audit of a healthcare provider under HIPAA
- Simulated audit of a cloud service provider
- Handling complex multi-site certifications
- Assessing outsourcing arrangements and supply chain risks
- Evaluating governance maturity using capability levels
- Using risk heatmaps to prioritise audit focus
- Applying the PDCA model during audit review
- Assessing continual improvement evidence
- Testing management review outputs for relevance
- Analysing internal audit performance metrics
- Validating top management commitment through interviews
- Reviewing risk treatment plans and cost-benefit analysis
- Interviewing CISOs and governance boards
- Evaluating audit independence and organisational structure
Module 12: Certification Process and CB Interaction - Understanding the role of Certification Bodies (CBs)
- Stage 1 vs Stage 2 audit objectives and documentation
- Preparing for surveillance and recertification audits
- Responding to CB findings and questions
- Submitting documentation to the CB in correct format
- Handling major nonconformities and certification delays
- Defending the organisation's risk treatment decisions
- Coordinating with external auditors and consultants
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in submissions
- Tracking certification timelines and milestones
- Managing audit days allocation and resource planning
- Understanding accreditation requirements of ANAB, UKAS, JAS-ANZ
- Preparing the organisation for unannounced audits
- Handling nonconformity appeals and disputes
- Maintaining certification through continual improvement
Module 13: Career Development and Professional Advancement - Positioning your ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification on LinkedIn
- Highlighting audit experience on resumes and CVs
- Networking with certification professionals and forums
- Joining ISACA, (ISC)², or local security groups
- Becoming a trainer or mentor in information security
- Transitioning to consulting or freelance auditing
- Pricing audit services and developing service offerings
- Building client proposals and audit scoping documents
- Using client testimonials to grow your reputation
- Earning additional certifications (e.g. ISO 22301, ISO 27701)
- Balancing in-house and third-party audit roles
- Developing a personal brand as a trusted auditor
- Preparing for interviews at global consulting firms
- Writing post-audit case studies for professional visibility
- Staying updated via industry publications and alerts
Module 14: Certification Preparation and Final Assessment - Review of key exam domains and competency areas
- Questions on lead auditor responsibilities and ethics
- Scenario-based problem solving for audit challenges
- Interpreting ambiguous control clauses in real context
- Time management strategies for written assessments
- Multiple-choice and short-answer question frameworks
- How to structure long-form responses
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Final checklist: have you mastered all requirements?
- Practice assessment with detailed feedback model
- Access to downloadable flashcards and study aids
- Progress tracking and knowledge gap identification
- Simulation of real certification-style questions
- Final readiness evaluation and confidence checklist
- Earn your Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service
- Understanding the role of Certification Bodies (CBs)
- Stage 1 vs Stage 2 audit objectives and documentation
- Preparing for surveillance and recertification audits
- Responding to CB findings and questions
- Submitting documentation to the CB in correct format
- Handling major nonconformities and certification delays
- Defending the organisation's risk treatment decisions
- Coordinating with external auditors and consultants
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance in submissions
- Tracking certification timelines and milestones
- Managing audit days allocation and resource planning
- Understanding accreditation requirements of ANAB, UKAS, JAS-ANZ
- Preparing the organisation for unannounced audits
- Handling nonconformity appeals and disputes
- Maintaining certification through continual improvement
Module 13: Career Development and Professional Advancement - Positioning your ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Certification on LinkedIn
- Highlighting audit experience on resumes and CVs
- Networking with certification professionals and forums
- Joining ISACA, (ISC)², or local security groups
- Becoming a trainer or mentor in information security
- Transitioning to consulting or freelance auditing
- Pricing audit services and developing service offerings
- Building client proposals and audit scoping documents
- Using client testimonials to grow your reputation
- Earning additional certifications (e.g. ISO 22301, ISO 27701)
- Balancing in-house and third-party audit roles
- Developing a personal brand as a trusted auditor
- Preparing for interviews at global consulting firms
- Writing post-audit case studies for professional visibility
- Staying updated via industry publications and alerts
Module 14: Certification Preparation and Final Assessment - Review of key exam domains and competency areas
- Questions on lead auditor responsibilities and ethics
- Scenario-based problem solving for audit challenges
- Interpreting ambiguous control clauses in real context
- Time management strategies for written assessments
- Multiple-choice and short-answer question frameworks
- How to structure long-form responses
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Final checklist: have you mastered all requirements?
- Practice assessment with detailed feedback model
- Access to downloadable flashcards and study aids
- Progress tracking and knowledge gap identification
- Simulation of real certification-style questions
- Final readiness evaluation and confidence checklist
- Earn your Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service
- Review of key exam domains and competency areas
- Questions on lead auditor responsibilities and ethics
- Scenario-based problem solving for audit challenges
- Interpreting ambiguous control clauses in real context
- Time management strategies for written assessments
- Multiple-choice and short-answer question frameworks
- How to structure long-form responses
- Common misconceptions and how to avoid them
- Final checklist: have you mastered all requirements?
- Practice assessment with detailed feedback model
- Access to downloadable flashcards and study aids
- Progress tracking and knowledge gap identification
- Simulation of real certification-style questions
- Final readiness evaluation and confidence checklist
- Earn your Certificate of Completion issued by The Art of Service