Whether it’s chasing shoplifters or inspiring others, Lovisa’s Alex Van Diggelen is on a mission worthy of 007 himself…

Joining Paul on this week’s Retail Risk – Podcast is Alex Van Diggelen, APAC Senior Loss Prevention Manager at Lovisa.

In this insightful and entertaining conversation, Alex reflects on his career journey – from aspiring pilot to highly-respected loss prevention leader with more than 25 years’ experience protecting some of Australia’s biggest retail brands.

Alex reveals how an after school job at Target ignited his passion for loss prevention, recalling a Benny Hill-style chase involving a fleeing shoplifter, stolen paint, a group of butchers, and an off-duty police officer!

We also hear how leaning into a James Bond theme at Myer helped Alex to get his teams thinking differently about theft and shrinkage – proof that channelling your inner 007 can be surprisingly effective when it comes to fighting retail crime.

The conversation then turns to Alex’s day-to-day role at Lovisa, what frustrates him most about today’s retail environment, and why rising aggression and violence in shopping centres is an increasing concern for the industry.

And just when you think you know the full story, Paul uncovers Alex’s rather surprising secret skill… Spoiler alert: he’s a talented photographer and award-winning artist!