About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Certification Manager to lead and oversee all certification operations in Muscat, Oman. This senior-level position requires a strategic professional who can manage the full lifecycle of organizational certifications, ensuring compliance with international standards including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and other relevant quality management systems. The Certification Lead will serve as the primary point of contact for external certification bodies, internal stakeholders, and regulatory authorities across the Sultanate.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement comprehensive certification strategies aligned with organizational objectives and Oman regulatory requirements
- Manage end-to-end certification processes including initial assessments, surveillance audits, and recertification cycles
- Liaise with accredited certification bodies (e.g., SGS, Bureau Veritas, TUV, Intertek) to schedule and coordinate audit activities
- Oversee operational, technical, commercial, financial, and administrative aspects of certification programs
- Establish and maintain documented management systems meeting ISO and industry-specific standards
- Conduct internal audits and gap analyses to identify non-conformities and drive corrective actions
- Prepare and present certification status reports to senior leadership and board members
- Manage certification budgets, vendor contracts, and resource allocation for audit readiness
- Train and mentor cross-functional teams on certification requirements, documentation, and audit protocols
- Monitor regulatory changes in Oman and GCC affecting certification obligations and adapt programs accordingly
- Lead root cause analysis for audit findings and implement preventive measures
- Maintain certification registers, certificates, and evidence repositories with version control
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quality Management, Business Administration, or related field; Master's degree preferred
- Minimum 7-10 years of progressive experience in certification management, quality assurance, or compliance roles
- Proven track record managing ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 certifications in the Middle East/GCC region
- Certified Lead Auditor qualification (IRCA or equivalent) for relevant ISO standards
- Deep understanding of Oman's regulatory framework, Ministry of Commerce & Industry requirements, and sector-specific mandates
- Strong project management skills with experience leading multi-site certification programs
- Excellent stakeholder management abilities — fluent in English; Arabic proficiency highly advantageous
- Demonstrated experience negotiating with certification bodies and managing audit logistics
- Proficiency in quality management software, document control systems, and data analytics tools
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in oil & gas, construction, manufacturing, or healthcare sectors in Oman
- Additional certifications: Six Sigma Black Belt, PMP, or Risk Management Professional
- Familiarity with Oman Vision 2040 quality objectives and national standardization initiatives
- Previous work with Oman Accreditation Body or Gulf Standardization Organization (GSO)