Michael Ward
About Michael Ward
Michael Ward serves as the Vice President of Global Risk, Asset Protection & Facility Operations at LL Flooring, where he has significantly improved operational metrics since 2013. His previous experience includes roles at Michaels Stores and Eckerd Drugs, where he focused on loss prevention and safety management.
Work at LL Flooring
Michael Ward has served as Vice President of Global Risk, Asset Protection & Facility Operations at LL Flooring since 2013. In this role, he has implemented various strategies to enhance the company's risk management and asset protection efforts. Notably, he has successfully lowered shrink from 0.61% of sales in 2014 to 0.21% in 2021. His leadership has also led to a 17% reduction in general liability claims and a 57% decrease in incurred expenses. Additionally, he has developed the company's first enterprise-wide Crisis Management & Business Continuity Plan.
Previous Experience at Michaels Stores, Inc.
Prior to his current role, Michael Ward worked at Michaels Stores, Inc. as the Loss Prevention & Safety Director of Distribution & Manufacturing from 2001 to 2013. During his tenure, he focused on enhancing safety protocols and loss prevention strategies across the distribution and manufacturing sectors, contributing to the overall operational efficiency of the organization.
Experience at Eckerd Drugs
Michael Ward held the position of Regional Loss Prevention Manager at Eckerd Drugs from 2000 to 2001. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing loss prevention initiatives across multiple locations, ensuring the safety and security of the company's assets during his one-year tenure.
Education and Expertise
Michael Ward studied Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration at Dallas Baptist University from 1990 to 1992. His educational background has provided him with a solid foundation in risk management and loss prevention, which he has applied throughout his career in various leadership roles.
Achievements in Loss Prevention
Michael Ward has made significant contributions to the field of loss prevention. He has presented multiple times at the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), focusing on building service-driven value-added programs. His initiatives have led to a 20% decrease in workers' compensation claims and a 33% reduction in incurred expenses through a claims management program. He also increased the chargeback recovery rate from approximately 50% to 80% by implementing advanced fraud prevention tools.