The LPM “Magpie” Awards offer a means to celebrate industry accomplishments recognizing the loss prevention professionals, teams, solution providers, and law enforcement partners that demonstrate a stellar contribution to the profession. Please join LPM in celebrating the accomplishments of our latest honorees.
Chris O’Leary, Principal, Loss Prevention Recruiters
“It has always been a pleasure to serve our industry and the biggest thrill for me has been pushing someone up the ladder,” said O’Leary. “It has always been my passion to identify leaders and leadership potential and help build careers.”
Having served as a practitioner himself, O’Leary began his retail loss prevention career as an undercover operative in the supply chain setting, progressing through various positions along his career path to include campus security manager, district LP manager, regional LP manager, and assistant director of corporate LP. His journey as a career counselor and search consultant began in 1989, and in 2007 he founded Loss Prevention Recruiters, LLC.
“A true leader should not only have the capacity to lead but should also demonstrate a proven track record of results, which includes mentoring and developing others,” he explained. “This adds credibility as a leader and helps motivate your team to achieve the desired results. Being empathetic and approachable goes a long way in driving success, both for you and your team. Engage with the various industry-wide organizations such as NRF, RILA, LPF, and others that support important industry initiatives and be willing to share information. Finally, a true leader will never overlook potential or forget where they came from. We are all where we are today because someone gave us the opportunity.”
O’Leary added, “As you build your career, take advantage of all the educational opportunities available to you. Certification programs such as the Loss Prevention Foundation’s LPC and LPQ have been a game-changer for our industry and should be pursued. Also, don’t be afraid to volunteer to do more in your organization. Pursue stretch assignments and expand your capacity outside of LP. The more you know, the more valuable you are to your organization—and the more marketable you will be.”
