In her role as president, Preston will oversee the global SQA business including the operations based in Akron, Ohio and Suzhou, China.  Further, Jeanette will focus on identifying additional regions and new industry segments that can benefit from SQA’s services.

“Since joining SQA as Director of Operations in 2007, Jeanette has contributed to the growth and success of SQA,” said Michael Hochschwender, president and CEO of the Smithers Group. He added “Jeanette’s leadership was instrumental to SQA’s expansion into China.”

In addition to her duties with SQA, Preston is also the Chair of IACBA (International Automotive Certification Bodies Association) and a board member of the IAAR (Independent Association of Accredited Registrars). In 2012, Preston assisted Kevin Gilbride, executive director of ASCA (Accredited Snow Contractors Associations) with the development of SN 9001.   “Jeanette was instrumental in the process” and “her knowledge of the International Organization for Standardization was essential to SN 9001’s success,” said Gilbride. 

Preston is also a qualified lead auditor for ISO 9001, ISO/TS 16949, and an aerospace auditor for AS 9100.  She can also conduct integrated audits for the requirements for ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001.