National Store Detective Support Lead

🔒 Confidential Employer
Posted 7 May 2026
LOCATION
UK Wide
TYPE
Full-time
LEVEL
Mid-Senior level
CATEGORY
Security
This employer holds a UK Home Office sponsor license — sponsorship for this specific role is at the employer’s discretion

SKILLS

Store detective experience Investigation techniques CCTV evidence handling SIA front line licence UK driving licence Training and coaching KPI management Communication and collaboration

FULL DESCRIPTION

National Store Detective Support Lead

Company: [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]

Location: UK Wide Role (HMRC Guidelines apply)

Employment: Full time

Ref: 94730

Job Objectives and Responsibilities

  • Contribute to the overall success of the Sainsbury's contract by providing effective support to the management team responsible for the store detective establishment.
  • Provide active support to zonal Store Detective Security Operations Managers, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements, industry standards, and regulatory guidelines.
  • Conduct store detective evaluations across the designated area and assist Store Detective Security Operations Managers with scheduling duties when required.
  • Plan, coordinate, and deliver training sessions to store detectives in alignment with operational needs and business objectives.
  • Support the Store Detective Security Operations Manager in ensuring the successful delivery of core store detective coverage hours.
  • Take shared responsibility for the achievement of all key performance indicators (KPIs), including return on investment (ROI) and establishment targets.
  • Collaborate effectively with other internal support functions to maximise the store detective team's contribution to reducing client losses.
  • Assist in the execution of the contract's store detective strategy, ensuring alignment with overall business goals and client expectations.
  • Demonstrate unwavering honesty and integrity in all actions and decisions, upholding the highest professional standards in your role as Store Detective Support Lead.

Main Duties

  • Provide operational support for the area's store detective provision in the absence of the Zonal Store Detective Security Operations Manager.
  • Ensure the timely and accurate delivery of store detective evaluations in accordance with current guidance and best practices.
  • Assist with CIR (Critical Incident Report) and ECO (Employee Conduct/Operational) investigations as required.
  • Promote and enforce a culture of integrity, ensuring store detectives consistently conduct their duties in line with ethical and professional standards.
  • Participate in regular meetings with store detectives alongside Store Detective Security Operations Managers to support communication, development, and performance management.
  • Ensure the accuracy and integrity of all reports generated by store detectives, maintaining high standards of data quality.
  • Support Store Detective Security Operations Managers in embedding and sustaining the store detective programme across the area.
  • Drive service excellence by continuously improving operational practices and performance within the store detective provision.
  • Identify training needs, address underperformance, and provide tailored support to individuals to help them meet and exceed expected standards.
  • Provide support with HR-related cases as required, ensuring adherence to internal policies and employment legislation.
  • Work collaboratively with key support teams such as Remote Operations and the Security Operations Centre (SOC) to enhance overall service delivery.
  • Contribute to talent development by identifying potential future store detectives and supporting the progression of current team members.
  • Respond proactively and reactively to emerging risks associated with criminal activity, adapting strategies accordingly.
  • Support the induction and onboarding process for all new store detectives, ensuring a smooth and effective transition into role.
  • Assist in the delivery of Level 3 Store Detective Accreditation training in line with operational requirements and development plans.

Person Specification

  • Proven experience working within a store detective environment, with a solid understanding of the role's responsibilities and demands
  • In-depth knowledge of the challenges faced by store detectives in a dynamic retail setting
  • Demonstrated expertise in conducting investigations into both internal and external dishonesty, including reviewing/burning CCTV footage and producing police-standard statements
  • Ability to use initiative and implement proactive strategies to support shrink reduction and loss prevention efforts
  • Effective and collaborative team player with strong communication skills and a leadership mindset
  • Capable of working efficiently in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
  • Proficient in leveraging technology to support the management and delivery of store detective operations and projects
  • Creative and solution-focused thinker, consistently seeking innovative ways of working and presenting new ideas to the store detective management team
  • Flexible and adaptable communicator, able to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders and audience types
  • High level of attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and consistency in all aspects of work
  • Excellent organisational skills, with strong time and self-management abilities
  • Positive, proactive attitude with high levels of enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for the store detective profession
  • Must hold a valid SIA front line licence
  • Must hold a UK drivers' license

Health and Safety Responsibilities

  • Follow Group and company policies and procedures at all times
  • Report any apparent deficiencies in systems of work or equipment provided that may result in failure of service delivery or risk to health and safety or the environment
  • Use all work equipment and personal PPE properly and in accordance with training received
  • Report any issues or training needs to your Line manager and /or via your divisional incident reporting system

Information Security

  • Ensure compliance with [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]'s information security procedures in all activities
  • Proactively identify and report security risks to your manager
  • Report on actual and suspected security incidents

Benefits

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] offers a market-leading benefits package including virtual GP, salary finance, cycle-to-work scheme, life cover, pension, employee shares, holiday purchase, and discounts through MiDeals.

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