About Gérard Koffi
Gérard Koffi is a highly accomplished quality management professional and information security expert with more than 15 years of experience in consulting, training, auditing, and process optimization.
He has a proven experience in implementation and auditing of Information Security and Privacy Information Management Systems with many hours of third-party audits experience that span from Information Technology, Telecommunication, the Financial sector, and Food Industries to the Public sector.
Fully Bilingual in French and English, Gérard Koffi’s expertise has impacted organizations such as Orange, Cocitam, Geza Expertise, Curtis International, Coxautomotive, Edu-Performance, Bell, etc.
A key contributor to the International Standard development with the Standard Council of Canada as an active member of the sub-committee CAC/JTC1/SC40 – IT Service Management and IT Governance.
Gérard Koffi, founder, and owner of Formatour Incorporated since 2016, possesses a bachelor’s degree in Sustainable Development from the Université Félix-Houphouet Boigny of Côte d’Ivoire. Additionally, he holds a Graduate Certificate in Quality Engineering from Conestoga College in Ontario, Canada. Gérard Koffi is advancing his education by pursuing his MBA at Telfer School of Management at the University of Ottawa, Canada.
His professional certifications include:
Certified ISO 27001 Lead Auditor; Certified ISO 27001 Senior Lead Implementer; Certified ISO 27701 Senior Lead Auditor; Certified ISO 9001 Lead Auditor; Certified ISO 22301 Lead Implementer; Certified ISO 14001 Auditor; Certified ISO/IEC 17025 Assessor; Certified ISO 45001 Auditor; Certified ITIL V4 Foundation; Certified Trainer.
About the experience in auditing
As an auditor for numerous years, I have developed an understanding of the challenges auditees face while dealing with non-conformities. Of course, as we continuously repeat during the opening meetings, the auditor’s goal is not to find non-conformities nor to issue one. His role is to find conformities, and when there is a lack of conformity that may lead to non-conformity or any other classification, such as observation, he takes appropriate action.
Unfortunately, despite that explanation, not all auditees understand and sometimes feel unpleasant when that happens.
I would be glad to prevent any instance of non-conformity. However, the nature of this profession necessitates adherence to principles of independence, objectivity, professionalism, and impartiality. We must provide an accurate snapshot of the organization’s situation, nothing more.
I recall a particular incident during an initial certification. Although the organization was well prepared and wanted to get certified on the first attempt without any non-conformities, the organization’s representative addressed their issue promptly and requested that I omit it from my report.
While I commended the representative for their proactive response, the obligation to document these findings remained unchanged. I empathized with the auditee’s disappointment, yet maintaining professional integrity was paramount. Ultimately, they acknowledged and valued my adherence to audit standards and approach. These instances represent just a fraction of the myriad experiences I have encountered in the auditing profession. Auditing, while fulfilling, is not suited for everyone.
Gérard's experience with MSECB
I audit with various certification bodies and consistently receive invitations from others asking me to join their team as an auditor. About MSECB, I must address their professionalism and customer service. They provide unwavering support to auditors throughout the way.
MSECB’s audit report templates are remarkably user-friendly and get the auditor and the auditee to the point. Their no-frills approach ensures a streamlined audit experience.
Furthermore, MSECB always tries to keep their auditors engaged by assigning them, which is good for the experience and growth.
I appreciate the strict respect of IAS and ISO/IEC 17021-1 rules and requirements by MESCB. This enhances collaboration with auditors, especially during auditing and writing the report.
Unlike other certification bodies, MESCB does not tolerate any recommendation in an audit report. I appreciate this approach because it protects the auditors and MSECB itself. Their approach is straightforward.
I recommend MESCB to any organization seeking a recognized and accredited certification body and to individuals willing to undergo an exceptional audit experience.
MSECB Auditor Profile
Gérard Koffi joined the MSECB Auditors Network in 2018 and has since performed many successful ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 27701, and ISO 9001 audits.
He has proven his experience in auditing against Information Security, Privacy Information, and Quality Management Systems.
His essential attributes encompass proven experience, honesty, strong communication skills, and extensive knowledge of the auditing field.
We are honored to have him as part of our MSECB auditor network!
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