188 – Certified Quality Auditor(CQA) and Audits in the Future

In this episode of Let’s Combinate, Subhi Saadeh—an ISO 13485 certified lead auditor, CQA, and CQE—dives into the evolving role of auditing in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries. He reflects on his journey to becoming a Certified Quality Auditor and asks a timely question: in the age of AI, will audits—and auditors—still matter?

Subhi outlines what separates good auditors from great ones, shares lessons from his own audit experiences, and breaks down how AI might streamline parts of the audit process. But he makes a clear case: while AI can assist, it can’t replace the critical thinking, real-time risk judgment, and systems awareness that human auditors bring. The episode wraps with practical advice on how to embrace AI as a tool—without losing the edge that only people have.

00:00 Introduction to Auditing and Certification

00:43 My Auditing Journey and Experience

02:40 The Importance of Technique in Auditing

03:26 Real-World Auditing Insights

04:59 The Value of Certification

07:16 Key Qualities of a Great Auditor

10:48 The Role of AI in Auditing

12:18 Why AI Won't Replace Human Auditors

15:26 Conclusion and Future Outlook

Subhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.