Attendees of the Lead Auditor Training Workshop

The Fiji National University’s (FNU) National Training and Productivity Centre (NTPC) kick-started its weeklong Lead Auditor – ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System Training in Suva yesterday.

Speaking at the opening, FNU’s Director Productivity and Innovation, Bob Mitchell, highlighted the importance of the training in strengthening workplace quality and accountability.

The training is being facilitated by Daventi Naidu, an experienced quality management expert and consultant for various organisations, including the International Trade Centre and HACCP Australia, and brings together participants from across industries who are committed to advancing standards of excellence within their organisations.

Welcoming participants, Mitchell said the course represents more than just technical training.

“ISO 9001:2015 is the world’s most widely recognised quality management standard. It is not simply a checklist—it is a framework for excellence built on customer focus, strong leadership, process discipline, and continual improvement,” he said.

Mitchell reminded participants of the critical role they are preparing to undertake as Lead Auditors.

“A Lead Auditor is not just a compliance officer. You are the independent eyes and ears of your organisation, ensuring that systems are effective, efficient, and aligned with customer and stakeholder expectations. Your work helps identify risks, uncover inefficiencies, and reinforce a culture of accountability and improvement,” he said.

(L-R) Director Productivity and Innovation, Bob Mitchell, Trainer, Daventi Naidu and Manager Productivity and Innovation, Vicky Narayan

Over the coming week, participants will gain practical knowledge of audit planning, evidence gathering, reporting, and follow-up—all aligned with ISO 19011 guidelines. They will also explore the leadership and integrity required to conduct audits with impartiality and professionalism, ensuring that each audit delivers real value.

Mitchell encouraged participants to take an active role throughout the course.

“This training is not about memorising standards to pass an exam. It is about building the mindset and skillset to be trusted quality leaders—catalysts of change who drive improvement within your organisations and industries,” he said.

He concluded with a reminder of the long-term commitment participants are undertaking.

“Quality is not an act; it is a habit. By joining this course, you are committing to fostering a culture of quality within your organisation and beyond. I encourage you to lead with confidence, audit with integrity, and make quality a practice, not just a promise.”

The training runs throughout the week at the Holiday Inn, Suva.