Loss Prevention Officer

Field Based – London/South Essex

Night shifts - 10pm - 6am, Sunday – Friday

You must hold a valid UK driving license 

To safeguard company and customer assets and mitigate loss by conducting proactive investigations, implementing preventative measures, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders.

• To assist the Security & Loss prevention manager and customer management in the investigation of areas of ‘loss’ using specialist skills and experience to identify and advise remedial action to be taken to reduce deficiencies.
• To conduct planned audits and inspections at delivery points at Train Stations, Underground stations, bus depots and at the distribution centre.
• To implement and maintain strong loss prevention practice(s) to improve the prevention of incidents and enhance profitability.
• To conduct independent checks on the agreed policies and procedures to ensure that these are being adhered to.
• To effectively plan any visits ensuring that all paperwork and photographs are accurate and of a high quality and meet the required standard.
• To produce and maintain accurate audit details of all checks on contract holder’s rounds ensuring that the correct processes are being applied specifically around supply and returns.

About the Role

Field Operations:

• Conduct routine field inspections of delivery points (train stations, underground stations, distribution centres) to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
• Perform stop and search operations as required, adhering to legal guidelines and company policies.
• Collaborate with customer teams to provide training and support on loss prevention best practices.
• Conduct covert and overt surveillance operations to detect and deter theft and fraud.
• Respond to incidents and emergencies, taking appropriate action to minimize loss and ensure personal safety.

Investigations:

• Investigate suspected theft, fraud, and other security breaches.
• Collect and analyse evidence, including CCTV footage and witness statements.
• Prepare detailed investigative reports, summarizing findings and recommendations.
• Collaborate with law enforcement as needed to pursue legal action.

Policy and Procedure Development:

• Review and update existing loss prevention policies and procedures to ensure effectiveness.
• Develop and implement new initiatives to enhance security measures and reduce loss.

Risk Assessment:

• Conduct regular risk assessments of operations and facilities to identify potential threats.
• Develop and implement mitigation strategies to minimize risk.

Reporting and Analysis:

• Prepare regular reports on loss prevention activities, including key performance indicators and trends.
• Analyse data to identify patterns and trends, informing strategic decision-making. 

In addition to the duties and responsibilities listed, the jobholder may be required on occasion to perform other duties assigned by the supervisor/manager. On occasion there might be the requirement to spend a night away from home staying in a fully expensed hotel. This job description is a guide to the duties and responsibilities of the post and is not exhaustive.  Subject to the needs of the service, the content of the job description for this post is subject to continuous review

What we can offer

Not only do we offer free onsite parking and competitive salary but you’ll also have access to:

• Company funded Health Cash Plan – providing cash back for everyday healthcare costs such as dental, optical and physiotherapy
• 5% match pension
• 25 days holiday plus holiday buy scheme
• 24/7 E-Learning modules, Training and Development opportunities
• Sharesave Scheme, Cycle to work schemes, Health cash plan
• Colleague Assistance Programme & Colleague referral scheme

About you

• Strong investigative skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Physical fitness and ability to perform field duties
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and regulations
• Proficiency in using investigative tools and technology

A valid UK driving license (company car may be provided).

The job is field based in and around the London/South Essex areas and involves the use of a company car, laptop computer.

The role will largely involve night work between the hours of 10pm – 6am with some variation as the tasks require.

Working days will include occasional Sunday nights.

Please note: you must have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this position. 

About us

Smiths News is the UK’s largest news wholesaler. Our colleagues serve 22,400 retailers every day of the year, operating from 33 distribution centres. 

Inclusion and diversity are important to us. We are working together to build and shape a culture that embraces people from all backgrounds, experiences, and orientations. Smiths News is dedicated to creating an authentic workplace where everyone can thrive.