Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) Practice Exam

Who is required to approve and sign an audit report before its transmittal?

1. A regulatory representative, if appropriate

2. The audit team leader's company president

3. The auditee's quality manager

4. The audit team leader

The correct answer is: The audit team leader

The audit team leader is responsible for approving and signing an audit report before it is transmitted. This role is crucial because the audit team leader has the comprehensive understanding of the audit findings, the context in which the audit was conducted, and the implications of the results. The audit team leader ensures that the report accurately reflects the observations and conclusions drawn from the audit process. While other roles, such as a regulatory representative or the auditee's quality manager, may have relevant interests or need to be informed, they typically do not have the authority required to sign off on the report itself. It is the audit team leader who holds the responsibility to ensure that all aspects of the audit are thoroughly documented and that any required corrective actions are highlighted. This accountability is vital for maintaining the integrity and reliability of the audit process.