Mission Protectas : Sébastien Billaudaz

What motivated you to work at Protectas?

My experience in the army, within the Alpine Hunters, instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, rigor, and teamwork. I immediately found these values at Protectas.

I was drawn to the company’s reputation as a leader in security and its core values of integrity, vigilance, and helpfulness.

Additionally, the opportunity to grow within a solid and well-known structure was a challenge I was ready to take on.

Can you tell us a bit about your beginnings at Protectas?

After a few months with our French counterparts, selling alarm systems, I successfully applied to Protectas. I started as an auxiliary agent, assigned to international organizations at the WTO site. This experience was incredibly enriching, as it allowed me to understand the high-level demands of the security profession. Gradually, I climbed the ranks, taking on various roles and acquiring diverse skills that prepared me for managerial responsibilities.

Each step of this journey brought me closer to my goal: to contribute significantly to the company’s success. After an unsuccessful first application for the recruitment service, I decided to resume studies in human resources, determined to join our HR team. A few years ago, I was given this opportunity, initially in the recruitment team, with the goal of offering real career paths to our employees.

What are you currently responsible for?

I am currently the HR Manager for Geneva at Protectas. My role is to ensure that each employee is in the right place and can thrive in their work. I am also responsible for HR administration, talent development, recruitment, and career tracking. My goal is to ensure that every person joining Protectas feels valued and supported throughout their professional journey. For this, I am fortunate to work with a fantastic team that collaborates with me every day.

What do you like most about your job?

What I appreciate most is the ability to work closely with employees and branch managers, understanding their needs, and acting for the well-being of the teams. I also enjoy the challenge of finding tailored solutions for each situation, so that everyone feels comfortable in their role and can give their best. It is highly satisfying to see people grow and succeed through the opportunities we provide.

Every day, I leverage my in-depth knowledge of the field to find solutions for both our employees and management teams.

What is your biggest challenge, and how do you manage it?

My biggest challenge is balancing employees' expectations with the company's needs. This requires a lot of diplomacy, listening, and flexibility. I strive to remain attentive to each situation, showing empathy while keeping Protectas' overall goals in mind. It's a constant balancing act, but it's also what makes my job so exciting.

Specifically, one of the major challenges in the coming years will be reducing turnover by retaining our employees more effectively.

Which value resonates with you the most, and why?

The value that resonates most with me is undoubtedly helpfulness. For me, being at the service of others is the very essence of our profession, whether as security professionals or HR managers. It means being available, attentive to others' needs, and always ready to offer help. This approach creates a harmonious and productive work environment.

A piece of advice for women who want to work in the security sector?

It's clear that our sector has traditionally been male-dominated, but I believe this is both a challenge and an opportunity for women. It requires perseverance and self-confidence but also allows for proving that skills and professionalism are not gender-based. My advice would be to never doubt your abilities and to not hesitate to take the plunge. The security sector offers many opportunities for those willing to fully commit. Be determined, show resilience, and don’t be afraid to make your voice heard. Security is a field where diversity is a strength, and every woman has a place in it.