IAF and ILAC are pleased to announce that Mr. Brahim Houla of the GCC Accreditation Center (GAC) has been elected as the incoming chair of the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated. His term will begin on 01 January 2026.

We are equally delighted to share that Emanuele Riva of Accredia has been elected as the incoming vice-chair.

Their election marks an important step in guiding the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated through its formative phase and ensuring a smooth and successful transition as the organisation prepares to begin operations on 01 January 2026.

The launch of the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated will mark a major milestone in the evolution of the international accreditation community, bringing together the work of IAF and ILAC into one trusted global accreditation organisation with a single mutual recognition arrangement.

‘I am deeply honoured by my election as the future chair of the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated,’ said Mr. Houla. ‘This is a historic moment for our community. Bringing together ILAC and IAF allows us to build a stronger, more coherent framework that will promote confidence in accreditation worldwide.’

‘I’m privileged to take on the role of Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated Vice-Chair at a time of major transformation for our industry. As advances in technology, sustainability, and data reshape the way we operate, our capacity to adapt and innovate will be key to strengthening the global accreditation system. I look forward to working alongside Brahim and our members to ensure a seamless transition, and to advance the shared mission of global confidence in accreditation,’ said Mr. Riva.

With the leadership of Mr. Houla and Mr. Riva, the Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated is well positioned to strengthen cooperation, trust and consistency within the conformity assessment community worldwide.

Hear a message from the Chair-Elect here.

Brahim Houla – GCC Accreditation Center (GAC)

Elected Chair

Emanuele Riva – Accredia

Elected Vice-Chair