The LPM “Magpie” Awards offer a means to celebrate industry accomplishments on an ongoing basis, recognizing the loss prevention professionals, teams, solution providers, law enforcement partners, and others that demonstrate a stellar contribution to the profession. Nominate your peers at Excellence[at]LPportal.com.
Joan Luttmer Sparks, Director of Marketing, Americas, Sensormatic Solutions
“When building business partnerships, it’s most important to demonstrate true interest in the retailer’s situations, needs, and goals,” said Sparks. “Solution providers must find meaningful ways to give back to the retail and loss prevention industry. We should ensure personal interactions are focused on people at all levels, not just those who can provide you with a sale. Go the extra mile and invite others to do the same.”
After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, Sparks became an art director serving various advertising agencies working on creative and catalogs for different retail accounts. “It was here that I fell in love with purchase data and insights,” she said. “This new experience with store data broadened my perspective and career opportunities.” After holding senior marketing positions at LexisNexis Risk, Southeast Toyota Finance, and Office Depot, she joined Sensormatic Solutions as director of marketing where she’s responsible for all commercial marketing in North and South America, handling events, advertising, and sponsorships.
Sparks feels that young leaders should never stop learning and reading, and should participate in industry associations such as the LP Foundation, RILA, NRF, and LPRC. “These organizations are where you learn and will open many career doors for you.”
She also speaks of the importance of giving back. “In addition to serving on the RILA asset protection steering committee and the board of the South Florida Interactive Marketing Association, I also volunteer in high schools as part of the ‘Take Stock in Children’ program. These organizations have introduced me to the most outstanding people both in our industry and the community. These experiences have helped energize me and helped me to clearly recognize the many opportunities and advantages I have received throughout my journey.”
