LOSS PREVENTION DIRECTOR - PAQ, Inc. - Lodi, CA

Job Summary:

The onsite Director of Loss Prevention is responsible for overseeing and managing loss prevention initiatives across the entire organization. This position plays a critical role in protecting company assets, reducing shrinkage, and ensuring a safe working environment for employees. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of loss prevention strategies within retail and will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to develop, implement, and enforce policies that mitigate risks.

Essential Functions of the Position:

Loss Prevention Strategy and Execution:

• Develop and implement regional loss prevention strategies aligned with company goals and objectives.
• Conduct regular audits and assessments to identify areas of potential loss, including theft, fraud, and operational inefficiencies.
• Analyze shrinkage data and trends to identify risks and provide actionable insights to improve operational performance.

Training and Development:

• Train store management and staff on loss prevention techniques, internal policies, and security protocols.
• Create training programs focusing on theft prevention, fraud detection, and customer/employee safety.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures related to loss prevention and security.
• Serves as role model to demonstrate professionalism.
• Solicits employee feedback, utilizes an "open door" policy and reviews employee satisfaction results to identify and address employee problems or concerns.
• Utilizes interpersonal and communication skills to lead, influence, and encourage others; advocates sound financial/business decision making; demonstrates honesty/integrity; leads by example.

Investigations and Incident Management:

• Lead investigations related to internal and external theft, fraud, and other security violations.
• Collaborate with law enforcement and other external agencies as necessary to resolve investigations.
• Respond to emergency situations such as theft, vandalism, or other threats, ensuring a quick and effective resolution.

Risk Management and Safety:

• Work closely with store leadership to assess and mitigate risks related to employee and customer safety, physical security, and asset protection.
• Conduct safety audits and recommend improvements to minimize accidents, injuries, or other safety-related incidents.
• Monitor the use of security systems, including CCTV, alarms, and access controls, to ensure optimal performance.

Collaboration and Reporting:

• Partner with regional and corporate leadership to drive loss prevention initiatives and contribute to broader operational goals.
• Prepare and present regular reports on shrinkage, risk assessments, investigations, and corrective action plans.
• Work cross-functionally with HR, legal, and operations teams to align loss prevention strategies with overall business objectives.

Knowledge:

• In-depth understanding of retail or grocery store operations, including sales, inventory management, and customer service.
• Comprehensive knowledge of modern loss prevention strategies, surveillance systems, and inventory control methods.
• Familiarity with local, state, and federal laws regarding theft, fraud, and retail security.
• Recognizes legal ramifications of detaining suspects, handling evidence, and court testimony.
• Proficiency in using surveillance technologies, including CCTV systems and alarm systems.

Skills:

• Strong knowledge of theft and fraud prevention, inventory management, and operational shrinkage reduction.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to identify constraints with effective resolution.
• Analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and develop strategic solutions.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in using security technology systems (e.g., CCTV, alarms, etc.).

Abilities:

• Ability to make sound decisions quickly, under pressure, and in ambiguous situations.
• Strong integrity and ethics, with the ability to handle confidential information appropriately and make decisions that reflect the company's values.
• Ability to adapt to changing situations, handle multiple incidents simultaneously, and operate effectively in a dynamic retail environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to move around the store and stand for long periods, including walking, climbing stairs, and navigating crowded spaces.
• Ability to occasionally lift or move objects weighing up to 50 lbs., including assisting in preventing theft and emergencies.
• Must possess solid visual acuity to observe suspicious activities and monitor security cameras. Auditory acuity is required to detect sounds indicative of theft or other emergencies.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to operate security equipment, manage handcuffs (if applicable and legally permitted), and perform tasks such as writing reports.
• Must have the physical stamina to patrol the store premises extensively and handle potential confrontations with suspects effectively.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and reach as necessary during daily routines, investigations, and when engaging with suspects or conducting physical security checks.

Work Conditions:

• Work Hours: Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as needed.
  • The position may require working early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays to support the store's operating hours.
  • The schedule may vary based on the store's needs and special events.
• Environment: While primarily indoors, climate-controlled, with adequate lighting and ventilation, duties may occasionally require outdoor work in all weather conditions to monitor external theft, assess security risks, and conduct exterior property checks.
• Primary Work Stations: Dedicated workspace designed to minimize distractions, allowing for concentration on tasks.
• Dress Code: Business casual attire, flexible for more formal or relaxed dress depending on company events or meetings.
  • A strong focus on maintaining a safe environment for customers, employees, and self. Adherence to health and safety guidelines is paramount, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
• Exposure: May be exposed to moving mechanical parts and cleaning chemicals at store locations.
• Noise Level: It is usually low to moderate, with occasional loud periods from customers, store announcements, and equipment.
• Interaction: The candidate may encounter a range of situations, including dealing with difficult or confrontational individuals. The candidate must maintain composure and professionalism in stressful or potentially volatile situations.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, business administration, or related field (preferred but not required with relevant experience).

Experience:10+ years of experience in loss prevention / asset protection, law enforcement or similar field.  10+ years of prior management experience.

Certification: Loss Prevention (Wicklander - preferred advanced)

Experience working with law enforcement agencies.

Knowledge of relevant state and federal laws regarding asset protection and employee safety.

Company Employment Policies:

• PAQ, Inc is an “At-Will” employer.
• PAQ, Inc is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

PAQ, Inc./Food 4 Less/Rancho San Miguel offers excellent health benefits, enrollment in our ESOP after 1 year, career advancement opportunities, paid vacation and sick leave, competitive wages, tuition reimbursement, and an employee assistance program.

We look forward to the possibility of you joining our team!

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of work performed by the employees assigned to this job. All employees must comply with Company policies and applicable laws. The responsibilities, duties and qualifications required of personnel so classified may vary.

EEO/Inclusivity - As PAQ, Inc. continues to grow, our diversity—from our variety of perspectives and wide range of experiences—is essential to our strategy and success. We are committed to continue to cultivate and celebrate an inclusive environment in which all employees are valued and respected regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.