Darby Lykins
Ocean Isle Beach
Summary
A people-centered law enforcement leader with nearly a decade of supervisory experience and more than 30 years of combined expertise in operations, logistics, account management, and team leadership. Known for balancing command presence with approachability, standing up for what is right, and managing complex cases, large teams, multimillion-dollar budgets, and international business relationships. A lifelong learner whose career blends public service with strong business acumen, enabling leadership rooted in integrity, clarity, and purpose.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Patrol Lieutenant
Shallotte Police Department
01.2016 - Current
- Leads and mentors a 12-officer patrol team with a focus on efficiency, morale, accountability, and community partnership.
- Conducts case management, coordinates investigations, and oversees internal affairs inquiries with fairness and integrity.
- Ensured departmental compliance with NCLEA state-mandated standards while serving as Accreditation Lieutenant, including developing policies and training programs.
- Manages recruiting, hiring evaluations, and thorough background investigations for new personnel.
- Serves as the department’s Quartermaster, maintaining equipment, inventory, and logistical readiness.
- Strengthens community relations through direct outreach, events, and public engagement.
- Applies certified hostage and crisis negotiation skills to bring calm, communication, and strategic thinking to high-stress situations.
Owner/Operator
Innovative Parcel Service
01.2007 - 01.2024
- Founded and operated a successful logistics company for nearly two decades, overseeing all aspects of small-package operations, transportation negotiations, and global freight strategy.
- Negotiated domestic and international small-package and freight transportation contracts.
- Managed sales operations, account portfolios, and long-term client relationships.
- Designed warehouse layouts and workflow systems to improve operational efficiency.
- Oversaw budgeting, strategic planning, and daily operational management with a business owner’s discipline and foresight.
- Supply Logistics Company
Area Account Manager
UPS
01.1999 - 01.2007
- Led a 14-member sales and operations team, fostering a high-performance culture.
- Managed a $180 million operational and sales budget.
- Directed forecasting, strategic planning, and contract negotiations.
- Completed an internal assignment in Beijing, China, focused on global operational development.
- Recruited, coached, and trained staff across domestic and international sales environments.
- Delivered public speaking presentations and participated in community engagement initiatives.
- United Parcel Service
Education
Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) -
Cape Fear Community College
12-2015
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Coastal Carolina University
05-1998
High School Diploma -
Avalon Academy
06-1994
Skills
- Leadership
- Community policing
- Integrity and honesty
- Public relations
- Organizational skills
- Team building and development
Pets
- Trout
- Pogie
- Mako
Personal Information
- Child Name: Kelsey
- Marital Status: Married
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Patrol Lieutenant
Shallotte Police Department
01.2016 - Current
Owner/Operator
Innovative Parcel Service
01.2007 - 01.2024
Area Account Manager
UPS
01.1999 - 01.2007
Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) -
Cape Fear Community College
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Coastal Carolina University
High School Diploma -
Avalon Academy