Wickes are a digitally led, service enabled organisation with a project in every home.

We are looking to recruit a Security Investigator  to deliver comprehensive specialist security support to the business which protects Company assets, and improves profitability through both proactive and reactive incident management and investigations across the Wickes estate.

This role will cover the South, so applications from the Reading, Newbury and Oxford areas are encouraged. A company car will also be provided.

Key Responsibilities:

Prevention

• To provide an effective and efficient asset protection and shrinkage reduction service to the business, specifically in relation to stock loss, cash loss, people and premises protection.

• Take an active role in developing Company policies, procedures and best practices.

• To provide proactive advice to the business across the estate to enhance physical security.

Awareness

• Manages and educates store operational teams in programs and methods for protecting stock, cash, equipment and other Company assets.

• Provide information on topical issues investigated that are used to produce the monthly department report. 

• Develop and foster an open line of communication with the store teams and Regional Operations Managers, to support business dialogue to reduce shrinkage and security related risks.

• Ensure field presence by routinely visiting stores, checking operational and physical security guidelines are being executed to reduce internal/external theft and fraud and prevent risk.

Compliance

• Manage designated service partners to collaboratively design and install a fit for purpose security system for all new Wickes stores and refits in line with the Wickes Security Specification, overseeing installation, technical commission in conjunction with Webway, company network and alarm receiving centre. Manage all aspects of security system repairs and maintenance across the estate from survey to installation.       

• Undertake a review of installed store security equipment using the Wickes specification, recommending  remedial works and improvements.

• Monitor, analyse and react in a timely manner to all Security Incidents reported to the department.

Detection

• Proactively use exception based reporting systems and fraud detection tools to identify dishonesty, profit erosion and shrinkage opportunities.

Investigation

• Conduct investigations and interviews at the direction of the Head of Security and Investigations; into stock and cash losses, breaches of Company policies and procedures and potential damage to the brand.

• Review and evaluate store inventory and audit results and initiate appropriate actions to reduce shrinkage and identify any internal risks. 

• Identify high risk stores and conduct holistic Target Site visits to reduce loss and identify any malicious activity.

Resolution

• Ensure that civil recovery is used / served on all relevant cases.

• Ensure that where appropriate all relevant cases are reported to the Police and external agencies.Ensure investigation reports provide clear recommendations where failures were identified in policy or processes that contributed, or could have contributed to a loss.

• Recommend new or improved processes or equipment to reduce risk exposure.

Personal Training & Development

• Highlight own personal training requirements to be qualified to deliver expert advice on all aspects of the role to the business in security related matters.

• To support, influence and coach store management and colleagues in security awareness and DETER crime initiatives.

• Review objectives quarterly with the Head of Security and Investigations

What are we  looking for?

• Evidence of learning qualifications at School (GCSE Level – C and above).

• English and Mathematics essential

• WZ Non-Confrontational Interview Techniques course 1 & 2 - certification needed

• PEACE Interview Technique (preferred)

• Proven experience in investigating internal/external theft, fraud and organised retail crime.

• Proven experience engaging with external agencies, NFIB, NBCC, NBCS and NACTSO

• Ecommerce analysis and fraud investigations.

• Awareness of current and emerging security technology. The operation, installation and technical aspect of CCTV, intruder alarm and covert systems.

• Appropriate understanding of practices and procedures within a corporate environment

• Ability to work within a high tempo, fast changing and dynamic environment with the skills required to prioritise

• Willingness to travel nationwide with the possibility of overnight stays

• Stakeholder management communication  with the ability to build and maintain effective internal and external relationships.

• Ability to write clear, factual and concise security reports, and produce evidence packs for submission to the Police and the CPS

• Ability to use the IntelliQ fraud analysis system (preferred)

• A comprehensive understanding of the workings of local policing, together with associated legislation e.g. GDPR, Theft and Fraud Act, Employment Law.

• Possess a full Driving Licence

What can we offer you?

You’ll be supported with fantastic learning and development and have the opportunity to grow and develop your career with us 

We’ll also equip you with a benefits package that includes 

• Competitive bonus

• Save-as-you-earn scheme

• Private Medical and Life Assurance

• Contributory pension scheme

• Colleague discount 

• Discount platform including savings and cash back at numerous retailers, savings on gym membership, cycle to work scheme

Our widely recognised wellbeing strategy is something we’re proud of at Wickes. As part of this, we offer a range of health and wellbeing benefits and support, including an Employee Assistance Programme, financial education & loans, and access to parental, menopause and fertility support.