Introduction
Welcome to our “Spotlight On” series, where we feature consultants we work with, exploring their expertise, motivations, and the difference they make to businesses across industries.
We’re kicking off the series with Assent Risk Management, a forward-thinking consultancy that’s been helping organisations implement and improve ISO systems for more than two decades.
About Assent Risk Management
Founded in 2002 by Robert Clements, Assent Risk Management is a progressive Risk and Resilience Consultancy built for the digital age.
Championing international and British standards including ISO, BS and EN frameworks -Assent’s goal is simple: to help organisations trade globally, operate efficiently, and protect society.
Robert’s motivation for creating Assent came from a desire to make ISO standards more practical, accessible, and meaningful. After years of seeing compliance treated as a tick-box exercise, he wanted to show businesses that management systems could be powerful tools for improvement, sustainability, and confidence.
“Our mission is to empower organisations to achieve excellence through the effective implementation of ISO standards,” says the Assent team.
“We focus on value-driven solutions that deliver compliance and genuine business improvement.”
The People Behind the Consultancy
Assent’s team includes around 30 experienced consultants, supported by a back-office team that assists with project coordination and administration.
Their combined expertise spans Quality, Environmental Management, Information Security, Business Continuity, Health & Safety, Aerospace, Artificial Intelligence and more covering both established and emerging standards.
Assent adopts a tailored approach to each engagement, taking into account the client’s needs, industry and organisational context. Their consultants aim to present requirements clearly and avoid unnecessary jargon, focusing on practical implementation of management systems.
Assent also specialises in sectors such as Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Construction, Logistics and the Public Sector adapting their services to fit the demands of each.
How Assent Supports Clients
From the first conversation to the day of audit, Assent guides clients every step of the way.
Their process typically begins with an initial consultation to understand the client’s objectives, followed by a Gap Analysis to identify opportunities for improvement. Consultants then help design and implement systems, provide training, and conduct internal audits. Office-based staff assist with scheduling and coordination to help maintain continuity throughout the process.
Even if a consultant is unavailable, another member of the Assent team is ready to help ensuring continuity, consistency and peace of mind throughout the certification journey.
Assent reports a strong track record in supporting organisations through the certification process, and many long-term relationships that continue long after the first audit.
Insights from the Field
Assent has witnessed a significant shift in the market as organisations increasingly focus on ethical innovation and sustainability.
There’s growing interest in new and specialist standards like ISO/IEC 42001 (Artificial Intelligence Management Systems) and ISO 14068 (Carbon Neutrality). Businesses are recognising the need to manage emerging technologies responsibly balancing innovation with governance, transparency and long-term resilience.
When asked what advice they’d give to businesses choosing a consultant, the team emphasises:
“Look beyond credentials. Find a consultant who understands your industry, communicates clearly, and works with your team not just for you. The right consultant delivers long-term value beyond certification.”
Working with ISOQAR
“We choose ISOQAR because of their professional, constructive approach to auditing,” says the team.
“Their auditors understand the real-world challenges businesses face, and their clear communication makes the certification process efficient for both us and our clients.”
They value ISOQAR’s transparent quoting, broad accreditation scope, and sector expertise, which allow them to confidently support clients across a wide range of industries and standards.
A strong relationship with ISOQAR means clear communication, smooth audit scheduling, and aligned expectations ensuring every client’s certification experience is as seamless as possible.
Success Stories and Achievements
Assent has supported a wide range of successful client journeys many captured in case studies and testimonials shared on their website.
Beyond client results, the company is proud of its commitment to positive impact. As a Living Wage Employer and climate-positive workforce through Ecologi, Assent champions sustainability and inclusivity.
They also support initiatives such as the Essex Wildlife Trust, hold Disability Confident Committed status, and promote mental health awareness across their team.
Their efforts have been recognised through numerous awards, including:
- Business Awards Employer of the Year finalist
- Sustainability Award finalist
- Investor in Wildlife Gold Award recipient
- Countywide Business Awards – Small Business of the Year winner
One particularly memorable project involved physical penetration testing, a less common but highly valuable service that helped a client identify vulnerabilities in their on-site security by simulating real-world breaches. It’s a great example of Assent’s practical, hands-on approach to risk management.
People, Culture and Growth
Assent’s culture is built on collaboration, professionalism and continuous improvement. The team invests in ongoing training, CPD and knowledge sharing to stay ahead of evolving standards.
They also take time to celebrate milestones — from birthdays to business wins — with regular events, social gatherings and recognition across their channels.
Looking ahead, Assent plans to continue expanding its services and expertise in emerging standards and technologies, particularly in areas like AI governance and carbon neutrality.
“The next few years will bring huge opportunities for consultants who can help organisations manage new technologies ethically and effectively,” they note. “That’s where we see the future – combining innovation with trust.”
