Description
CPD Accredited | Approx. 90 mins | Self-study online

This course is designed for employees, supervisors, managers, and professionals responsible for overseeing or auditing third-party suppliers. Participants will explore the purpose of supplier audits, how risk-based oversight supports effective supplier management, and the common challenges that can arise during audits.
The course covers key auditing principles, audit planning and preparation, and evidence gathering through interviews, observations, and document reviews, as well as effective note-taking and reporting techniques. Learners will also examine how corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) are used to address findings and improve supplier performance.
By completing this course, learners will be able to conduct supplier audits more confidently and professionally, gather clear and reliable audit evidence, and support structured oversight of third-party suppliers. The training provides practical knowledge and tools to strengthen supplier compliance, performance, and accountability.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Understand the importance of planning and preparation before conducting an interview.
- Communicate effectively and listen actively during investigative interviews
- Use appropriate questioning techniques to gather accurate information
- Manage different interviewee behaviours professionally
Assessment
This course contains a multiple-choice quiz, which must be completed online and graded immediately with a passing score of 80%. If you fail, you can re-attempt it, and tutor support can be provided upon request.
Suitability
Who should do this course?
This course is suitable for anyone responsible for overseeing, managing, or auditing third-party suppliers. It is particularly relevant for employees, supervisors, managers, and professionals involved in quality assurance, compliance, procurement, or supplier management activities.
The course is designed for individuals who need to plan, conduct, or support supplier audits and ensure that external providers meet required standards, contractual obligations, and organisational expectations.
Pre-requisites
This course is suitable for those with no prior knowledge. To access the content, learners must have access to the Internet and an individual email address.
Certificate
This course includes a PDF certificate that is available for immediate download upon successful completion.