The importance of ISO 37001 training for organisations

What is ISO 37001, and why is it important?

ISO 37001 provides a globally recognised framework for managing bribery risks, helping companies establish structured anti-bribery practices.

While certification is an important milestone, the long-term effectiveness of an anti-bribery management system (ABMS) relies on having trained professionals, including internal auditors, who can oversee, adapt and enhance these practices over time. Internal audits are a mandatory requirement under ISO 37001, making the role of trained auditors critical to ensuring compliance and maintaining the system's effectiveness.

With proper training, these individuals gain the knowledge and skills to manage anti-bribery efforts proactively, ensuring that the company’s commitment to ethical practices extends well beyond initial certification.

What should ISO 37001 training cover?

Effective ISO 37001 training goes deeper than the basics, equipping professionals with practical skills and insights to implement, manage and audit a successful anti-bribery management system.

The following are the essential areas it should cover.

• Understanding ISO 37001 and its role in compliance management. Participants need a clear understanding of how ISO 37001 fits within a broader compliance strategy and how anti-bribery initiatives align with organisational goals.
• Assessing bribery risks and implementing controls. Effective training enables participants to assess bribery risks accurately and implement appropriate controls to mitigate these risks.
• Setting compliance objectives and ensuring adherence. A strong anti-bribery programme relies on defined compliance objectives. Training should focus on helping participants set these goals and maintain adherence.
• Managing third-party risks and anti-bribery measures. Third-party relationships often carry significant risks. Training should provide strategies and specific anti-bribery measures for handling these partnerships responsibly.
• Reviewing performance and ensuring ABMS sustainability. To support long-term compliance, training should cover methods for regularly reviewing ABMS performance, ensuring the system remains adaptable and effective.
• Conducting investigations and driving improvements. Effective training prepares professionals to conduct thorough internal investigations and continuously improve their ABMS, fostering a culture of integrity.
• Auditing skills for ISO 37001. Aligned with ISO 19011 guidelines, training should impart practical auditing skills, enabling professionals to assess ABMS compliance and identify areas for improvement.

Benefits of ISO 37001 training for individuals and companies

ISO 37001 training offers numerous advantages for both individuals and the organisations they represent.

For individuals

• Practical knowledge and skills. By learning to implement, manage and audit ABMSs, individuals can confidently apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
• Enhanced expertise. Professionals gain specialised skills in anti-bribery compliance, which can open doors to career advancement and specialised roles in compliance and ethics.
• Internal auditor certification. ISO 37001 training can prepare individuals to become certified internal auditors, which is a requirement to maintain an effective ABMS under ISO 37001.
• Professional recognition. Completing ISO 37001 training adds a valuable credential, showcasing expertise that enhances credibility and competitiveness in the job market.

For companies

• Improved risk management. Training ensures that key personnel can effectively identify and address bribery risks, minimising the potential for reputational and financial harm.
• Strengthened compliance programmes. With certified internal auditors and trained staff, organisations can build sustainable anti-bribery programmes aligned with ISO 37001, maintain ABMS effectiveness, and conduct regular audits to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Enhanced stakeholder trust. A well-implemented ABMS demonstrates to clients, partners and regulatory bodies that the organisation is committed to high ethical standards, enhancing trust and business relationships.
• Cost savings and reduced legal risks. By proactively managing bribery risks, companies can reduce legal and regulatory costs associated with non-compliance, avoiding fines and other sanctions.

Choosing the right training provider matters

Selecting the right training provider is crucial. While achieving ISO 37001 certification is a significant milestone in establishing an effective ABMS, sustaining this achievement requires skilled professionals who are well-versed in its principles.

It’s important to look for a provider that specialises in both certifying organisations under ISO 37001 and training staff to uphold anti-bribery initiatives. This dual expertise ensures that participants gain a comprehensive understanding of all aspects related to ABMSs from a leader who demonstrates thorough expertise in anti-bribery management principles.

By choosing a provider that addresses anti-bribery management thoroughly, organisations can solidify their commitment to compliance and integrity, creating a foundation that endures over time.

Conclusion

By understanding its requirements, mastering implementation techniques and learning to conduct internal audits and improve an ABMS, professionals are equipped to effectively mitigate bribery risks and foster a culture of integrity. With the right training provider, organisations can ensure their internal audit capabilities meet ISO 37001 requirements, build an effective, lasting anti-bribery culture, and maintain compliance with global standards, strengthening trust across all levels.