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.
Roger Greene, Assistant Vice President-Director, Marshalls/The TJX Companies
“Once you become a leader, it is no longer about you,” said Greene. “Putting your employees first is most important. Encouraging, motivating, imparting knowledge, and sharing with others becomes paramount. Doing things ‘for’ people and not ‘to’ them, speaking ‘with’ people and not ‘at’ them, and always practicing relationships before tasks.”
Greene began his loss prevention career with Broadway Department Stores in 1978. As he continued to develop as a leader, he moved to TJX Companies in 1991, where he has spent the past thirty years leading and mentoring loss prevention professionals. “Forty-two years ago, I started a journey and had no idea where it would lead,” he said. “I’ve learned more and done more than I ever thought possible, and there are so many to thank for helping me along the way.” He announced his retirement from TJX in February.
He offers this advice to others as they climb the ladder of success:
- Recognize that it’s your peers and your subordinates that get you promoted, not your bosses.
- Support and believe in diversity, and always demonstrate mutual respect.
- Remain a student of the business throughout your career.
- Set clear expectations for your team. Support them when they are struggling and challenge those doing exceptionally well.
- Always demonstrate willingness, show your capability, and above all else, maintain a positive attitude.
Greene believes his influence on others is his greatest accomplishment. “Leadership truly is about others’ successes and not your own. A true leader is genuine, engaging, and approachable. They listen, understand, care about their people, and are authentic with them. They demonstrate humility, respect, and resilience. They have integrity and lead with vision and motivation. There is nothing more rewarding than looking at the individuals you’ve influenced and knowing that you helped them get where they are today.”
