Day in the life of a BRCGS Auditor

1. Introduction

This episode provides an insightful overview of a day in the life of a BRCGS auditor, covering the steps and challenges encountered during an unannounced audit, including the complexities of completing an audit report and closing out non-conformities.

We also explore the essential skills required for a food auditor and much more.
Our expert guest, Elaine Wigham, is the founder of her own auditing and management consultancy. Before branching out on her own, she held the position of Technical Services Manager at Food Chain ID Auditor and Field Team Manager at SAI Global Assurance Services.

Elaine offers valuable insights into the realities and challenges of conducting BRCGS audits.

2. Podcast Time Stamps

00:16 Meet the Expert: Elaine Wigham

02:02 What initially drew you towards becoming a BRCGS auditor?

03:18 Which of the BRCGS standards have you audited?

04:07 What are the main challenges when conducting unannounced audits compared to announced audits?

08:25 What kind of pre-audit information are you provided with to prepare yourself before undertaking an audit?

12:03 Can you walk us through a typical structure of an unannounced BRCGS audit?

19:08 Can you share a memorable experience from an audit that stands out?

23:43 What are the most common non-conformities you raise during an audit?

26:32 What’s your approach to handling non-conformities when they arise during an audit?

28:13 What are the biggest challenges an auditor has generating an audit report and closing out non conformities.

32:00 How do you stay up-to-date on changes to legislation and industry practice?

33:24 What skills do you think are most important for a successful auditor to have?

35:17 What’s the most rewarding part of being a BRCGS auditor?

36:09 What’s your advice for companies preparing for a BRCGS audit?

37:56 What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a BRCGS auditor?

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Credits

This podcast was brought to you by totrain and featured Elaine Wigham from Elaine Wigham Consultancy. It was directed and produced by the totrain team and featured John Husband from totrain asking the questions. Thanks for listening.

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