Mike Uri

Nominee: Mike Uri, Woolworths New Zealand
Mike Uri has set a new benchmark for excellence in risk management, leading by example as a positive and inspiring team leader for the Woolworths NZ Group, to achieve outstanding results in significantly reducing loss and harm. Over the past year, Mike’s innovative mindset, collaborative approach, and dedication to engaging with the wider loss prevention community have delivered exceptional results for WWNZ and the industry at large.
Fostering a high-performing, motivated team:
Mike leads a dynamic and accomplished team, united by a shared vision of success. His leadership style encompasses empowerment, trust, and open communication, and he has a strong focus on team development. Add on his unwavering positivity and Mike has cultivated an environment of high morale and strong performance, as part of a culture where people feel supported to take ownership of their work.
His team is recognised across the organisation for their professionalism, expertise, and ability to deliver results.
Driving innovation and change:
Innovation is a hallmark of Mike’s leadership. Over the past year, he has introduced novel approaches to risk management that have significantly improved operational outcomes. Mike continually seeks new ways to address challenges, leveraging technology and data-driven insights to create smarter, more effective processes. His ability to think outside the box has positioned WWNZ as a leader in adopting modern loss prevention practices.
Building bridges through collaboration:
Mike’s collaborative approach has been pivotal to his success. He has strengthened relationships across WWNZ’s supply chain, store operations, and leadership teams, ensuring that risk management strategies are deeply integrated into the business.
He is equally committed to fostering partnerships outside the organisation, connecting with industry leaders and law enforcement to share knowledge and best practices. Mike’s ability to bring stakeholders together has been instrumental in creating a unified approach to loss prevention and safety.
Engaging the wider LP community:
Mike’s contributions extend beyond WWNZ, as he actively engages with the broader loss prevention community. He is known for his willingness to share insights, champion new ideas, and encourage open dialogue among peers. This commitment to collaboration has positioned Mike as a respected voice in the industry, inspiring others and elevating the standards of risk management across the sector.
A leader driving exceptional outcomes:
Under Mike’s leadership, WWNZ has seen transformative results in its approach to risk management. His dedication to fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence has delivered measurable improvements in stock loss, safety, and operational efficiency. His achievements over the past year are a testament to his expertise, leadership, and vision for the future of risk management.