The LPM “Founders’ Awards” offer a means to celebrate industry accomplishments on an ongoing basis. They recognize loss prevention professionals, teams, solution providers, law enforcement partners, and others who demonstrate a stellar contribution to the profession. The ability to influence change is a product of drive, creativity, and determination. It also requires a unique ability to create a shared vision that others will understand, respect, support, and pursue. Each recipient reflects that standard of excellence, representing the quality and spirit of leadership that makes a difference in our lives, people, and programs. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of our latest honoree.
“Being a true leader in the community requires one to be genuine, approachable, and trustworthy,” says Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. “I believe that effective leadership requires a big-picture perspective and a commitment to collaboration. As police chief, I’ve prioritized that collaboration with our retail community, dedicating efforts to build robust partnerships that enhance public safety, strengthen community ties, and support economic growth. Together, we are creating a safer, more connected city.”
Serving the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department for more than thirty years, Jennings has held various roles that include detective in the Homicide Division, sergeant in the Criminal Intelligence Division and Patrol Division, captain commanding the Street Crimes Division and Patrol, and major overseeing the Criminal Investigations Bureau, Real Time Crime Center, Support Service Bureau, and Internal Affairs. In 2016, he was promoted to deputy chief, overseeing the Patrol Services Group, Administrative Services Group, and Support Services Group before being promoted to chief in 2020.
Jennings has also invested in his own professional development, earning a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University, and a master’s degree from Pfeiffer University. In addition, he’s graduated from the FBI National Academy, the Senior Management Institute for Police, and the FBI National Executive Institute. A former student athlete, he was inducted into the Appalachian State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010.
To become a true leader, Jennings believes the ability to listen is paramount. “When building partnerships, it’s often more important to listen than to be heard,” he says. “Involving the community in decision-making processes is essential for building trust and fostering a sense of shared ownership. By showing empathy and understanding, we create a sense of mutual respect and build strong, lasting relationships that create synergy between both sides. When you can balance all these elements, you’ll maintain a grounded perspective and prioritize what truly matters.”