Ippolito overseas security at the company's executive headquarters, its 126 retail stores nationwide, and a catalog fulfillment and distribution center. Before Ippolito joined the staff in 1986, Talbots loss prevention program (LPP) was practically nonexistent. His first task was to develop a companywide set of standard policies and procedures that addressed every facet of operations and an internal audit program was developed to enforce these policies. Regional managers initiate and monitor loss awareness programs, discuss loss prevention activities with store managers monthly, maintain liaison with law enforcement officials, perform internal investigations, and provide feedback to headquarters. The chain also relies on such traditional security measures as key controls, alarms, and motion detectors. A monthly newsletter and an awareness video supplement the LPP at the employee level. Unannounced, semiannual audits of compliance with the LPP procedures examine such factors as price change and transfer management, cash and media control, physical security, customer service, housekeeping, and human resources management. Electronic surveillance supplements security measures at the catalog center.