Mission Protectas : Shareta

Who are you in a few words?

My name is Shareta, I'm 41 years old, and I'm Swiss. I'm an open person, and I don't think there's anything about me that people don't already know. 😊

What motivated you to work at Protectas?

I started as a bouncer in a nightclub. I took the opportunity to switch to full-time security after hearing about the great training and career opportunities available. Plus, I heard that Protectas was actively looking for women. 😉

Can you tell us about your beginnings at Protectas?

I started in 2006 as a security agent on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich, working in patrols and parking control. After about two years, I obtained the security and surveillance certificate and participated in a management assessment where I showed potential for office work.

In 2008, I was involved in planning the security for EURO 08, managing over 300 positions daily. This was a stepping stone to personnel planning, which I managed for six years before joining the sales department in Zurich.

What are you responsible for now?

Since 2016, I have been working in the Mitte region as Administration Director and Executive Assistant. I am responsible for public tenders (regional and national), recruitment, logistics, and until 2023, I also contributed to the Global Clients Switzerland team.

Soon, I will focus more on recruiting new talent, proving that development never stops.

What do you like about your job?

The variety, without a doubt. With 18 years of experience and all the positions I've held, I know this company like the back of my hand.

What is your biggest challenge and how do you handle it?

It's often difficult to shift the mindset of long-time employees. It takes time and a lot of effort to convince them of new ways of doing things. I need to be persistent and guide them through the changes, using my knowledge of past challenges to address concerns.

Which value speaks to you the most and why?

Integrity is paramount. I believe in an open error culture and think everyone deserves a chance to grow without prejudice. For me, it means not judging prematurely and treating everyone with a credit of trust.

I live by these three values, and here’s how I interpret them:

• Integrity: Don't judge in advance – everyone deserves a credit of trust.
• Vigilance: Don't go through life naively – trust your instincts!
• Helpfulness: No "I don't have time" or "that's not my job." If someone needs help, I'm there, and I know I'll get help when I need it.

How do you feel about working as a woman in your job?

In my current role, being a woman is not particularly special.

On the field, it was different; you had to fight to prove your worth, but once respect was earned, you had a great job and a loyal team behind you.

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

To all those who advocate for equality and dare to live it: at Protectas, there is no difference between men, women, or others. Equal pay, equal working conditions, equal requirements. Honesty, respect, and loyalty are the keys to fitting in and advancing in the team.