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    Mission Protectas: Diego Girardelli

    With 28 years of experience, Diego leads Protectas operations in Ticino with passion and high standards. A former soldier and recognised security expert, he shares his journey, his commitment to training, and his drive for quality, inclusive, and human-centred security.

    Published
    07 April 2025 10:04

    Who are you in a few words?

    I live in Lugano and have been working in the security sector for 28 years. I have a scientific background in IT and, after serving as a professional soldier in Italy (including two major missions, one in Kosovo), I started my career at a fiduciary institute, managing IT and building security.

    Later, out of personal ambition, I switched to private security in 2004 and I’ve been in it ever since.

    Over the years, I’ve completed various trainings: property protection specialist, SBSS driving school, Swiss Federal Professional Certificate (APF), university courses in Security & Safety with a focus on Business Continuity, workplace safety training with SUVA, and I’m also a certified trainer and exam expert for adult education in the canton of Ticino.

    Since 2012, I’ve also been teaching for AISS / VSSU in the APF program for security and surveillance agents.

    My hobbies are travel, hiking in the mountains, photography, and running.

    What motivated you to join Protectas?

    I discovered Protectas in 2017 and immediately connected with the company’s values, they reflect who I am and how I work.

    Tell us about your start at Protectas.

    I joined in February 2018, at a time when the Ticino branch of Protectas SA was growing fast. I had just left a senior Security Manager position at a large company, a prestigious and stable job.

    At first, the challenge and the workload were a bit overwhelming, but thanks to the collaboration at the national level and my "never give up" mindset, I fully embraced the decision. I’m proud that Protectas SA trusted me to bring my expertise and help build its presence in Italian-speaking Switzerland. I’m truly happy to be part of this group.

    What is your role at Protectas?

    I’m in charge of operations and internal training. I also act as the company’s legal representative, with signing authority in the commercial register.

    What do you enjoy most about your job?

    Training and coordinating our field agents. That’s what I find most fulfilling.

    What’s your biggest challenge, and how do you handle it?

    Every day is a new challenge, big or small. My main goal is to ensure that our company stands for quality and professionalism.

    I face each day with calm and initiative, making sure our staff work in a healthy environment. I also want clients to see us as a reliable, proactive partner they can count on.
    Which value do you relate to most? (Integrity, Vigilance, Helpfulness)

    All three, no question. Without even one of them, I couldn’t do this job. These are essential values every security agent must embody to carry out their responsibilities.

    Any advice for women who want to work in the security field?

    By nature and conviction, I’ve always believed in equal opportunities.

    I’m convinced that in certain roles, women are even better suited, especially when empathy and strong communication skills are needed.

    To all women interested in this field, I say: don’t be afraid to apply in this still male-dominated sector, your strength is needed.

     

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