Retail Internal Audit & Compliance Manager (Fashion Retail)

Job Purpose

To protect company assets and reduce inventory losses across assigned retail stores through stock audits, investigations, compliance reviews, and effective security controls. The role works closely with store team and regional team.

Key Responsibilities

Shrinkage and Inventory Control

• Implement shrinkage reduction initiatives in line with the Group Profit Protection Strategy.
• Plan and oversee stock audits, ensuring store teams understand and follow preparation and audit procedures.
• Investigate stock discrepancies and inventory losses, identify root causes, and follow up on corrective actions.
• Monitor damaged, faulty, and stolen merchandise, and recommend controls to reduce losses.
• Conduct regular store visits and review compliance with Profit Protection, Store Operations, and Stock Audit procedures.
• Maintain accurate incident records and ensure investigations and reports are completed within agreed deadlines.

Investigations and Compliance

• Investigate theft, suspected misconduct, and incidents affecting inventory integrity or company assets.
• Conduct detailed reviews of store processes to identify control gaps and non-compliance.
• Prepare investigation reports, written statements, and supporting evidence.
• Coordinate with investigation agencies and law enforcement when required, including attending court or tribunal proceedings.
• Handle all investigations and sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality.

Store Security

• Assess store security vulnerabilities and recommend corrective measures to minimise loss exposure.
• Ensure security equipment is maintained and used effectively.
• Conduct random bag and locker checks in accordance with company policy.
• Respond to break-in incidents, complete incident reports, and recommend measures to prevent recurrence.

Training and Stakeholder Coordination

• Train new and existing store teams on loss prevention, security awareness, and relevant procedures.
• Work closely with Profit Protection, Area, and Store Managers to address compliance issues and support shrinkage reduction activities.
• Communicate investigation findings, risks, and improvement recommendations clearly.
• Follow agreed reporting processes and monitor the completion of corrective actions.

Qualifications and Experience

• 5–8 years of experience in retail , auditing, inventory control, or a related field, preferably within a large-format retail environment.
• Strong experience in investigations, root cause analysis, and incident reporting.
• Knowledge of relevant criminal and employment law.
• Proven ability to implement initiatives that improve operational KPIs and reduce shrinkage.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to priorities multiple assignments in a challenging, fast-paced environment.
• High standards of integrity and confidentiality.
• Own transport and willingness to travel regularly to assigned stores, including upcountry locations.