Job Description

Position Summary

The Investigation & Audit Manager conducts operational audits and investigations across assigned geographies to identify, reduce, and prevent loss. This role bridges the gap between field operations and corporate compliance, ensuring stores adhere to Profit Protection standards and audit protocols. The Manager leads investigations into policy violations, process gaps, and potential fraud while providing actionable insights to improve field accountability and operational discipline.

Key Responsibilities

Audit & Investigation Execution

• Conduct scheduled and unscheduled store audits to assess compliance with operational and financial controls.
• Lead investigations into theft, fraud, and procedural breaches across assigned locations.
• Partner with Field Teams and Operations to identify root causes, mitigate risks, and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain detailed records of findings, evidence, and recommendations to ensure traceability and compliance.
• Provide training and support to field leaders on audit protocols, investigation readiness, and resolution procedures.

Compliance & Reporting

• Analyze audit results to detect trends, identify process breakdowns, and prioritize remediation efforts.
• Prepare detailed reports summarizing findings, risk ratings, and recommendations for corrective action.
• Collaborate with Legal, HR, and Profit Protection leadership on disciplinary or procedural follow-up.
• Track audit performance metrics and ensure timely closure of all investigations and audit actions.
• Support cross-functional initiatives to strengthen internal controls, accuracy, and compliance.

Key Metrics

• Audit Completion (%): Percentage of stores reviewed within cadence.
• Incident Resolution Rate (%): Timely closure of audit or investigation findings.
• Corrective Action Closure (%): Completion rate of remediation steps.
• Loss Event Frequency: Number of recurring incidents per location.
• Compliance Rate (%): Percentage of stores operating within established control parameters.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Business, Criminal Justice, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in loss prevention, retail audit, or investigative roles.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct root-cause investigations and provide clear, actionable insights.
• Proficiency in Excel, audit software, and data analytics for tracking trends and compliance.
• Strong interviewing, documentation, and case management skills.
• Excellent communication and ability to influence across multiple levels of the organization.

Skills & Competencies

• Operational and compliance auditing expertise.
• Investigative interviewing and reporting proficiency.
• Risk analysis, data interpretation, and process improvement.
• Collaboration across Legal, HR, and Operations.
• Strong ethical judgment and confidentiality.
• High attention to detail with disciplined follow-through.

Leadership Attributes

• Integrity-driven executor with strong analytical acumen.
• Calm and solution-oriented under pressure.
• Focused on prevention, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Builds trust and credibility with store and field leadership.

Embodies WHSmith’s values of transparency, accountability, and excellence

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