Ascend Ratings is a 100% black female youth-owned business. We provide independent B-BBEE rating services to entities of all sizes throughout South Africa.
Ascend Ratings is committed to upholding the principles of impartiality and independence as outlined in SANAS R47-03. We declare that our verification activities are conducted with complete objectivity, free from any undue commercial, financial, or other pressures. We maintain a strict policy to identify, manage, and mitigate any potential conflicts of interest that may arise during our verification processes. Our personnel are trained to adhere to the highest ethical standards and are prohibited from engaging in activities that could compromise impartiality. Ascend Ratings strives to ensure that all our clients receive fair and unbiased treatment throughout the verification process.
At Ascend Ratings, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of impartiality, integrity, and fairness in all our verification activities. We understand that stakeholders may occasionally have concerns or disputes related to verification decisions or outcomes. To ensure transparency and provide a fair avenue for resolving such concerns, the Rating Agency has established an Appeals Procedure (MAN107 ) which allows our clients and stakeholders to submit formal appeals or complaints regarding verification decisions or any matter related to the verification process. The procedure involves a thorough and independent review of the appeal by our Appeals Review Committee (ARC). The ARP consists of individuals who were not directly involved in the original verification process, ensuring an objective and unbiased assessment.
We are dedicated to maintaining the highest level of impartiality, integrity, and professionalism in all our verification activities. Ascend Ratings understands that clients and related parties may have complaints related to our services. To ensure that complaints are addressed promptly and fairly, our procedure allows our clients and stakeholders to submit formal complaints about any aspect of our services or any potential non-conformities. As a responsive and accountable agency, we encourage you to bring any complaint to our attention, as it presents an opportunity for us to continuously improve and uphold our commitment to impartiality and excellence. We value the feedback of our clients and stakeholders and take all complaints seriously. Your input is instrumental in helping us improve our services and adherence verification principles. To submit a complaint, please contact our Verification Manager at admin@ascendratings.co.za.
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We provide the client with comprehensive information on the verification process, the price and other related information.
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A preparatory session to help you understand the scorecard and all the information requirements for the verification.
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When client is ready, a site visit is set up to do verification at the client’s premises.
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After the site visit an analyst will submit the file for review.
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The review outcome is communicated to the client via a formal email. Client gets opportunity to accept or appeal the outcome.
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The final report and certificate is issued. A soft copy will be emailed and the hardcopy couriered.
Submit a written appeal within the stipulated period from the date of receiving the verification report or decision.
Receive acknowledgment of receipt within 48 hours from the Appeals Coordinator.
An Appeals Review Panel is formed to review the appeal, ensuring the process is fair and impartial.
A comprehensive review and investigation is conducted, considering all relevant documentation.
The Appeals Review Committee makes a decision based on the merits of the case and communicates the decision within 30 days.
Collection of Personal Information: We collect personal information from our clients, employees, suppliers, and other stakeholders to facilitate the B-BBEE verification process and to fulfill our legal and contractual obligations. The personal information we collect may include, but is not limited to, names, contact details, identification numbers, B-BBEE certificates, and other relevant documentation.
Use of Personal Information: We use the collected personal information solely for the purpose of conducting B-BBEE verification services, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, and maintaining accurate records. The information is used only by authorized personnel within our organization and relevant regulatory authorities as required by law.
Storage and Retention of Personal Information: We implement appropriate administrative, technical, and physical measures to safeguard personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. Personal information is stored securely in our systems and retained only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected, as well as to comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
Disclosure of Personal Information: We do not disclose personal information to third parties unless required by law or with the explicit consent of the data subject. When required to share personal information with third parties, we ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to protect the data subject's rights and interests.
Rights of Data Subjects: As a data subject, you have the right to access your personal information, request corrections, and withdraw your consent for the processing of personal information. If you wish to exercise any of these rights or have concerns regarding the processing of your personal information, please contact our Administration Manager at admin@ascendratings.co.za