Exploring Standards with Assent

In this episode of Exploring Standards, host Jess is joined by Robert Clements, Founder and CEO of Assent Risk Management, to discuss the Top 5 Non-Conformances often encountered during ISO 27001 audits. As one of the most critical standards for information security management, ISO 27001 helps businesses ensure their data is protected, but non-conformances can lead to delays in certification or compliance issues.

Robert takes us through the most common mistakes organisations make when implementing ISO 27001 and shares actionable insights on how to avoid them. From inadequate risk assessments to poor documentation practices, he covers the key areas where businesses typically falter and provides practical advice to ensure your journey to ISO 27001 certification goes smoothly.

Whether you're in the early stages of ISO 27001 implementation or preparing for an audit, this episode is packed with valuable tips to help your organisation meet the standard and achieve full compliance. Tune in now to learn how to avoid the pitfalls and improve your information security management system.

Show Links:

UKConsulting Open Data Log: https://www.ukconsulting.org/open-data/

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In this episode of Exploring Standards, we dive into ISO 20252, the international standard for market, opinion, and social research, with Juliana Wood, Managing Director and Director of Certifications at CIRQ. With the market research industry evolving rapidly, ISO 20252 is gaining more attention than ever—so what does it mean for businesses, and why is it becoming so popular?

Juliana shares insights into her role at CIRQ, the organisation’s relationship with the Insights Association, and why ANAB accreditation is important for certification bodies. We also explore where ISO 20252 is most widely used and how it aligns with key industry bodies such as ESOMAR, MRS, and the Insights Association.

If you’re considering certification, this episode breaks down the ISO 20252 certification process, what companies can do if they haven’t started yet, and how businesses can maintain certification through internal audits with Assent and external audits with CIRQ.

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CIRQ website: https://www.cirq.org/

Juliana Email: [email protected]

In Part 2 of our live Grow with ISO series, we delve into ISO 42001, the newly introduced international standard for artificial intelligence (AI), and explore how it is shaping the future of AI development and governance.

Building on the insights from Part 1, this episode focuses on the strategic importance of ISO 42001 in ensuring AI systems are designed, implemented, and managed responsibly. Learn how this groundbreaking standard helps organisations align AI initiatives with ethical, security, and regulatory frameworks, and discover how it contributes to building trust and transparency in AI technologies. Hosted by Robert Clements from Assent Risk Management, Paul Stevens from AvISO, and Kevin Shinners from A-LIGN, our expert panel provides invaluable insights into this new standard, offering practical guidance on its implementation and how it works alongside other frameworks to enhance the effectiveness and resilience of AI systems.

Tune in for actionable strategies and thought leadership as we dive into ISO 42001 and its role in the responsible and sustainable development of AI technologies.

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In this special episode of Exploring Standards, we bring you highlights from the live event, Grow with ISO, held at the stunning Spitalfields Conservatory in London in November 2024. Hosted by Robert Clements from Assent Risk Management, Paul Stevens from AvISO, and Kevin Shinners from A-LIGN, this event brought together industry leaders to explore the transformative power of ISO frameworks.

Part 1 of this live series focuses on NIS 2, DORA, and ISO 27001. Discover how an integrated approach to these frameworks can help organisations streamline processes, drive operational excellence, and ensure compliance with critical security and regulatory standards. The conversation also delves into how aligning these frameworks can build resilience and open doors to new business opportunities.

Tune in for expert insights and practical advice from some of the brightest minds in the industry as they discuss how to harness the power of international standards to enhance organisational success.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn directly from the experts live on stage.

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In this episode of Exploring Standards, host Jess is joined by Adam Hollick, an ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 Lead Auditor with 12 years of experience in the Royal Air Force (RAF). Together, they dive into the essentials of ISO 27001, the globally recognised standard for information security management.

Adam provides a clear overview of ISO 27001, explaining the purpose of an Information Security Management System (ISMS), how long it typically takes to achieve ISO 27001 certification, and breaks down the six key areas of security covered by the standard.

The conversation also addresses critical questions, such as how ISO 27001 relates to cyber security, its alignment with GDPR requirements, and the differences between ISO 27001 and ISO 27002.

Packed with expert insights, this episode offers valuable guidance for anyone looking to strengthen their organisation’s information security practices.

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhollick/

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In this episode, we dive into the journey of implementing ISO standards at Assent Risk Management, as host Jess is joined by Kathy Clements from Assent Risk Management. Kathy, shares the experience of implementing ISO standards across the organisation, including the process of selecting the right standards and choosing a certification body.

Kathy also provides valuable insights into the internal audit process and how she prepared Assent for ISO certification. She discusses the challenges and successes faced during the certification and implementation journey, offering practical advice and key takeaways for organisations considering ISO certification.

This episode offers an inside look at Assent's own commitment to maintaining high standards of quality, providing valuable lessons for other organisations looking to implement ISO standards. Whether you're starting your ISO journey or refining your processes, Kathy’s advice will help guide you toward successful implementation and certification.

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In this episode of Exploring Standards, host Jess is joined by Martin Davies from Drata to discuss how businesses can streamline ISO and SOC compliance using automation. Martin shares insights into Drata’s innovative tool, detailing how it alleviates common pain points in compliance processes and caters to various types of businesses.

The episode delves into how consultants can collaborate with Drata to support their clients, highlighting the benefits of working with a consultant alongside the platform. Martin also explains how Drata can be leveraged during assessments or certification audits, offering a seamless experience for organisations.

Finally, the conversation explores trends in compliance and Martin wraps up by discussing Drata’s available packages. 

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Starting your ISO journey can feel like a daunting task, but in this week’s episode of Exploring Standards, host Jess is joined by Robert Clements, Founder and CEO of Assent Risk Management, to guide you through the process and help you take those first steps with confidence.

Robert shares valuable insights on how to choose the right ISO Standard for your organisation and outlines the initial steps to take when embarking on your ISO journey. From understanding the benefits of a gap analysis to outlining the difference between implementation and certification, this episode is packed with practical advice.

We also explore whether the implementation process is the same across all ISO Standards, how to prepare for certification, and the role a consultant can play in simplifying the journey. Finally, Robert provides clarity on the typical timeline for achieving ISO certification and how businesses can maximise the value of this process.

Whether you’re considering ISO certification for the first time or just looking for expert guidance, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to start strong. 

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Welcome back to Season 3 of Exploring Standards with Assent. In this week’s, host Jess sits down with Rob Hall from Tempo Audits to discuss how Tempo is shaking up the world of ISO 27001 certification. With an innovative approach to certification and auditing, Tempo Audits is leading the way in remote auditing practices.

Rob shares the story behind Tempo Audits and how their unique certification process challenges the traditional methods of ISO 27001 certification. We dive into how remote audits are conducted, the technology and methodology that make them effective, and the numerous benefits for organisations, including flexibility, cost efficiency, and reduced disruptions.

If your organisation is preparing for a remote ISO 27001 certification audit, this episode has you covered with practical tips and insights on how to streamline the process. 

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Join host Donna and Jonathan Hurley, ISO Consultant & Trainer, in this insightful episode of Exploring Standards as they delve into Six Sigma, a project management based approach to business process improvement.