What Does an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Earn?

  • ISO 27001 Lead Auditor salary
  • Published by: André Hammer on Feb 07, 2024
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Are you thinking about becoming an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor? You might want to know how much you can earn in this role. ISO 27001 is a standard for managing information security, and lead auditors make sure that companies follow it. The salary for a lead auditor can change based on experience, qualifications, and location. Let's explore the typical earnings for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in the UK.

Role and Responsibilities of an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor

Conducting ISO 27001 Audits

ISO 27001 audits involve a few important steps:

  1. Initial audit planning.
  2. Conducting the audit.
  3. Following up with corrective actions

The lead auditor must ensure compliance with security standards by thoroughly examining processes, policies, and controls to safeguard information assets.

To improve information security management systems during audits, strategies like regular risk assessments, employee training, and staying updated on cybersecurity threats can be used. Lead auditors play an essential role in upholding the security and integrity of an organization's information assets.

Ensuring Compliance with Security Standards

Companies ensure compliance with security standards by conducting regular audits and assessments. This means reviewing existing security measures to align with established standards like ISO 27001.

Processes like regular employee training and automated security controls help monitor and enforce compliance with these standards.

When non-compliance issues are found, the organization takes immediate corrective actions. This may involve updating policies, implementing extra security measures, or providing additional employee training to stay compliant with required security standards.

Managing Audit Teams

In managing audit teams within ISO 27001 standards, effective leadership means clear communication, task delegation, and conflict resolution strategies. The lead auditor can assign specific roles based on expertise, fostering a collaborative work environment. Recognizing team achievements and providing continuous training is important. Addressing conflicts requires active listening and implementing corrective actions.

Constantly reviewing the audit process based on lessons learned is crucial for continuous improvement in managing information security systems.

Continuous Improvement of Information Security Management Systems

Continuous Improvement of Information Security Management Systems involves identifying and implementing opportunities for ongoing enhancement. Conducting regular reviews and making adjustments to the effectiveness of information security processes and controls is important for organizations to ensure their systems remain reliable and up-to-date.

This can be achieved through monitoring and evaluating key performance indicators, conducting internal and external audits, and staying informed about industry best practices. Moreover, organizations can continuously evolve their security management systems to address new and emerging threats and vulnerabilities.

Keeping abreast of the latest developments in technology and cybersecurity, as well as implementing regular risk assessments and incident response exercises, are essential for staying ahead of potential security risks and maintaining the effectiveness of information security management systems.

Determinants of ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Salary

Experience and Qualifications

To become an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor, candidates typically need:

  • A Bachelor's degree in a related field, such as information technology or computer science.
  • At least five years of experience in information security management.
  • Qualifications like a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification and ISO 27001 Lead Auditor certification.

Previous experience in conducting ISO 27001 audits and a strong understanding of risk assessment and management are also necessary.

Candidates with higher education, relevant certifications, and several years of experience can expect a higher salary. For example, individuals with a CISA certification generally earn more. Leadership experience or working in lead auditor roles can also lead to a higher salary than entry-level auditors.

Geographical Location

The place where you work can really affect how much money you make as an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor. For instance, in the United Kingdom, an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor in London gets paid a lot more than one in a smaller city because London is more expensive to live in. In India, an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor in Bangalore might make more than those in other cities because Bangalore is known for its technology industry.

Generally, ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in big cities with lots of businesses and industries tend to earn more than those in rural or less developed areas. Sometimes, an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor in a specific industry, like finance, might make more in one location than in another if there are fewer opportunities in the same sector. This shows how much where you work can affect how much you get paid.

Size and Sector of Employer

The size of the employer affects the salary range for an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor. Larger employers usually offer higher salaries due to the resources and scope of work. The sector of the employer also plays a role.

For example, finance or healthcare sectors may offer higher salaries due to the sensitive nature of the information they handle. On the other hand, education or non-profit sectors may offer lower salaries. Understanding these factors is important in determining the salary range for an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor.

Certifications and Additional Skills

To qualify as an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor, certifications such as the ISO 27001 Lead Auditor and ISO 27001 Lead Implementer are required. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, attention to detail, and high levels of integrity are also valuable. These certifications and skills can significantly impact the salary of an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor.

Professionals with the necessary certifications and additional skills tend to command higher salaries due to their expertise in ensuring conformity to ISO 27001 standards. For instance, those with ISO 27001 Lead Auditor certification generally receive a 10-15% higher salary compared to those without. Similarly, individuals with strong analytical and communication skills can negotiate higher salaries. Certifications and additional skills play a crucial role in determining the salary of an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor.

Average Salary Estimates for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors

United Kingdom

The average salary for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in the United Kingdom is around £45,000 to £60,000 per year. This varies based on factors such as years of experience, location, and the size and industry of the employer.

For example, ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in finance or healthcare sectors generally earn higher salaries than those in the public sector. Additionally, there are promising opportunities for advancement and salary growth in the UK for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors.

Increasing earning potential can be achieved through additional certifications, such as Certified Information Systems Auditor or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and by gaining more years of experience.

United States

The average salary for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in the United States varies from £60,000 to £90,000 per year. This range depends on factors such as location, experience, and qualifications. Industries like finance, healthcare, and information technology often offer higher salaries due to the demand for data security and compliance. ISO 27001 Lead Auditors can pursue advancement and higher earnings through relevant certifications, extra training, and gaining experience in various industries.

Developing expertise in specific aspects of ISO 27001 auditing can also lead to better-paying opportunities in the field.

Europe

The average salary for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in Europe is usually lower than in the United Kingdom and the United States. This is because of the different costs of living and economic conditions in these regions.

Where you work in Europe can make a big difference to how much you earn. Urban areas tend to pay more than rural areas for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors.

Also, being part of professional networks and communities can have a big impact on salary. Demand for skilled professionals and the opportunities available in these networks can affect how much you get paid and your chances for career growth.

Asia

Lead Auditors in Asia can earn competitive salaries, typically ranging from £40,000 to £60,000 per annum. Geographic location within Asia significantly impacts these figures. For instance, Lead Auditors in Singapore or Hong Kong may earn higher salaries compared to those in India or the Philippines due to cost of living and economic conditions.

Opportunities for career advancement and salary growth are plentiful in Asia, especially as the demand for information security professionals continues to rise. Lead Auditors who pursue additional certifications, gain extensive experience, and stay updated with the latest industry trends can expect a steady increase in their earning potential.

The growing number of organisations seeking ISO 27001 certification and the need to ensure compliance with data protection laws further contribute to the positive career outlook for Lead Auditors in Asia.

Salary Comparison with Other Information Security Roles

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts monitor an organization's security infrastructure, conduct risk assessments, and develop security measures to protect sensitive information. They also perform security audits to ensure compliance with ISO 27001 standards for safeguarding data. Continual improvement of information security management systems is achieved through implementing best practices, regular security training for employees, and staying up-to-date with cybersecurity trends.

By employing strategies like regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing, Information Security Analysts can identify potential weaknesses and prevent data breaches.

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) has a big role. They make sure that an organization's information is secure. This means following security rules and standards. They also manage the security budget and share security goals with top executives.

To meet security rules, the CISO checks security regularly. They also make plans to fix any problems. They work with auditors to make sure the rules are followed.

For better security, the CISO trains employees and tests security often. These efforts are important for keeping data and systems safe, especially with new cyber threats around.

Information Security Manager

An Information Security Manager oversees ISO 27001 compliance and auditing processes. They develop security policies, procedures, and guidelines. They work with internal and external stakeholders to ensure security standards and regulations are followed. The manager identifies security risks and vulnerabilities and puts in place measures to reduce these risks.

To improve Information Security Management Systems, the manager uses strategies such as security assessments, employee training, and staying updated on security trends. These methods help the organization maintain ISO 27001 compliance and strengthen its security.

Impact of Industry on ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Salary

Technology and Software

Technology and software have a big impact on the role of an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor. Auditors now need to understand technological systems and software to assess and secure data effectively. They must keep up with the latest technological developments and security measures. The tech and software sector offers many opportunities for career growth and higher salaries for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors. Skilled auditors are in demand as technology evolves.

Professional networks and communities in the techand software industry also play a role in shaping the auditors' salary. Networking and staying updated on tech advancements can lead to better career prospects and higher earnings.

Finance and Banking

Finance and banking have a big influence on how much ISO 27001 Lead Auditors get paid. These auditors make sure that financial information and transactions are secure, so they are in high demand in the finance and banking industry, which leads to good salaries. In this sector, there are also many opportunities to advance in your career, which can mean a big increase in salary for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors.

Being part of professional networks and communities also makes a difference in their salary, as they offer access to helpful career resources, mentorship, and chances to improve skills. This helps ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in finance and banking to build up their qualifications and expand their professional connections, which can then lead to earning more money.

Healthcare

Healthcare regulations and compliance standards have a big impact on the role of an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor. With the increasing digitization of healthcare data, auditors must ensure that the systems and processes in place comply with industry standards to protect patients' sensitive information.

This means they need to have a deep understanding of data security and privacy regulations to effectively audit healthcare organisations. Some key challenges for ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in the healthcare industry include staying up to date with constantly evolving regulations and technologies to ensure compliance.

On the other hand, this dynamic environment also presents opportunities for auditors to develop specialised expertise in healthcare data security and privacy, making them more valuable to employers. The demand for auditors with healthcare expertise is expected to grow as the industry continues to prioritize the protection of sensitive patient data.

Opportunities for Advancement and Salary Growth

Senior Lead Auditor

Senior Lead Auditors are responsible for conducting ISO 27001 audits to ensure the organisation's information security management system meets the required standards. They lead audit teams, develop audit plans, conduct on-site and remote audits, and prepare detailed audit reports.

They work closely with audit teams to provide guidance, support, and training on ISO 27001 requirements, and communicate audit findings to stakeholders while recommending corrective actions.

This role offers opportunities for career advancement to senior management positions within the information security field, and gaining expertise can lead to pursuing certifications in other ISO standards for increased salary prospects and professional recognition.

ISMS Manager

An ISMS Manager is responsible for maintaining compliance with security standards. This includes developing, implementing, and maintaining an effective Information Security Management System (ISMS). They conduct risk assessments, identify security vulnerabilities, and establish security policies and procedures to protect sensitive information.

The ISMS Manager also oversees the monitoring and auditing of the ISMS to ensure it remains effective and compliant. They contribute to the continuous improvement of Information Security Management Systems by analyzing security incidents and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement.

Additionally, the ISMS Manager may develop and implement security awareness training programs for employees and collaborate with other departments to integrate security best practices into all business processes.

Experienced and highly skilled ISMS Managers can impact their career prospects significantly. By demonstrating a strong track record of successfully managing information security risks and implementing security measures, they can position themselves for higher-paying roles, such as ISO 27001 Lead Auditor, or progress into senior management positions within the organisation.

Information Security Consultant

An Information Security Consultant ensures compliance with security standards. They do this by conducting risk assessments, implementing security policies and procedures, and overseeing security measures.

As they gain experience and relevant qualifications like CISSP or CISM certifications, their salary potential increases. With years of experience and advanced qualifications, an Information Security Consultant can advance to senior consultant or manager roles, leading to significant salary growth.

Furthermore, opportunities for advancement to positions like Information Security Director or Chief Information Security Officer may become available, further increasing their earning potential.

The Effect of Professional Networks and Communities on ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Salary

Professional networks and communities can have a big impact on how much ISO 27001 Lead Auditors in the United Kingdom earn. Being part of these groups in the cybersecurity and auditing fields can open up job opportunities, industry connections, and insights. This can make ISO 27001 Lead Auditors more visible in the job market and potentially lead to higher salaries. These networks also play a key role in determining salaries in different locations.

For example, being part of a global network can provide access to international opportunities and insights, leading to higher earning potential in certain regions.

Additionally, these networks can help with salary growth and advancement by providing resources like training, certifications, and mentorship. These can enhance the skills and expertise of ISO 27001 Lead Auditors, leading to higher-paying job opportunities.

Key takeaways

An ISO 27001 lead auditor usually earns a good salary. The amount can change based on factors like where they work, how much experience they have, and the industry they work in. In the UK, the average salary for an ISO 27001 lead auditor is between £40,000 and £70,000 per year. The need for people with this certification is increasing, making it a profitable career choice for those who have the right skills.

Readynez offers a 4-day ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Course and Certification Program, providing you with all the learning and support you need to successfully prepare for the exam and certification. The ISO 27001 Lead Auditor course, and all our other ISO courses, are also included in our unique Unlimited Security Training offer, where you can attend the ISO 27001 Lead Auditor and 60+ other Security courses for just €249 per month, the most flexible and affordable way to get your Security Certifications.

Please reach out to us with any questions or if you would like a chat about your opportunity with the ISO 27001 Lead Auditor certification and how you best achieve it. 

FAQ

What is the average salary of an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor?

The average salary of an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor is approximately $75,000 to $90,000 per year, but this can vary depending on location, experience, and the specific company or organization.

What factors can affect the salary of an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor?

Some factors that can affect the salary of an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor include the level of experience, the industry they work in, the geographic location, and certifications such as CISA or CISSP. For example, an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor with a CISA certification may command a higher salary than one without.

Is there a certification or qualification required to become an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor?

Yes, a certification from an accredited organization such as IRCA (International Register of Certified Auditors) or PECB (Professional Evaluation and Certification Board) is required to become an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor.

Are there any specific industries or sectors that pay higher salaries to ISO 27001 Lead Auditors?

Yes, industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology tend to pay higher salaries to ISO 27001 Lead Auditors due to the sensitive nature of their data and the need for strong information security protocols.

Can an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor earn bonuses or incentives based on performance?

Yes, an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor can earn bonuses or incentives based on performance, such as meeting audit completion targets or achieving high client satisfaction scores.

For example, they may receive bonuses for completing a certain number of audits within a specified timeframe or for uncovering significant vulnerabilities in a client's information security system.

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