Setting a precedent in Yemen

Q: What was your journey into quality?

A: My journey into quality began when I started working in organisational development at Yemen Commercial Bank (YCB). During a project at YCB involving developing bank services, I used ISO standards and I saw first-hand how robust quality standards directly translated to improved efficiency and a reduction in customer complaints. This experience solidified my interest in quality management.

Then I took on roles focusing on quality management and my passion for this field deepened, fuelling my commitment to continuous improvement.

Q: When and why did you decide to join IRCA?

A: I decided to join IRCA in 2020 after completing the IRCA training for QMS Lead Auditor. I understood that obtaining a globally recognised certification would enhance my knowledge and skills while providing credibility in the industry. Joining IRCA also allowed me to be part of a professional community that prioritises quality management.

Q: How did you find the process of obtaining QMS Lead Auditor membership of IRCA?

A: The process of obtaining QMS Lead Auditor membership was both challenging and rewarding. It required entering all the audit information accurately, and it was challenging having to pay fees in euros; thankfully a friend outside Yemen was able to help me accomplish this. Overall, I found IRCA’s structured approach invaluable, as it guided me effectively through the requirements.

"Joining IRCA has boosted my confidence on my capabilities, and raised my credibility among peers, partners and clients too."

Nassar Almahfadi, QHSE Lead Auditor and Regional Manager of Quality Systems in HSA Group

Q: How did IRCA support you with the process?

A: IRCA provided excellent resources, including the access to application of membership through the website and the helpful emails from the new member advisers that guided me through the process. Their support made applying much smoother.

Q: What have been the benefits to your career in joining IRCA?

A: Joining IRCA has boosted my confidence on my capabilities, and raised my credibility among peers, partners and clients too.

Q: You are the first IRCA-certified auditor in Yemen – what does that mean to you, and how do you hope it might encourage others to start the membership process?

A: Being the first IRCA-certified auditor in Yemen is a great honour and demonstrates my constant passion for quality and standards. It sets a precedent for others in my country, and I hope I can represent it in international forums.

I hope my achievement will inspire my fellow professionals to pursue IRCA membership, and highlight the value of quality standards in improving business practices in Yemen.

Q: What is the next career goal or milestone that you are now working towards?

A: Currently, I am focusing on expanding my experience with ISO standards related to quality, occupational health and safety, food safety, and the environment in a number of ways:

• Training: Providing more training courses, as I am a qualified trainer for QMS Lead Auditor ISO 9001:2015 courses, and I am in the process of qualifying as a trainer for OHSMS & EMS Lead Auditor courses.
• Audits: I aim to expand conducting audits to different industries in Yemen to gain diverse experiences.
• Quality systems and local specifications: In my role as Regional Manager of Quality Systems in HSA Group, the largest industrial and commercial group of companies in Yemen, I’m dedicated to developing quality system practices in line with international standards.

As a member of the local specifications committee, representing the private sector in Yemen, I’m dedicated to contribute to the updating of local specifications in line with ISO standards. These goals will not only enhance my skills but also contribute positively to my organisation and broader industry in Yemen.

Q: What advice would you give to anyone who is considering joining IRCA?

A: My advice would be to thoroughly research the benefits of IRCA membership and understand the commitment involved in the certification process.

If you are passionate about quality management and want to enhance your career, I highly encourage you to take the leap. The journey may be challenging, but it is immensely rewarding.