Mission Protectas: Dunja Wüthrich

Who are you in a few words?

I’m an experienced HR manager with a strong background in human resources, recruitment, employer branding, and personnel development. I’m passionate about people and organizations. My work is guided by structure, solution-oriented thinking, and team spirit – all with a good dose of humor. My career across various industries has helped me gain deep insights into different corporate cultures.

What motivated you to join Protectas?

For me, Protectas combines a meaningful social purpose with exciting HR challenges. What motivated me most was the opportunity to take on regional responsibilities in a leadership role and actively contribute to the development of HR processes. I was also convinced by the company’s clear and strong values.

Can you tell us about your early days at Protectas?

In the first few weeks, I was able to gather valuable insights and identify areas for improvement in HR. The team welcomed me openly and collegially, which made my integration much easier. I quickly took on responsibilities and gained the trust of my stakeholders early on.

What are your responsibilities today?

I lead the HR team for the German-speaking part of Switzerland and Ticino. I am responsible for the operational and strategic support of employees in these regions. This includes developing and optimizing HR processes, handling labor law matters, and participating in internal projects. My goal is to ensure HR work that is human, efficient, and service-oriented.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love the variety – no two days are ever the same. What fulfills me most is being able to support employees and managers in challenging situations and find solutions together. Being able to contribute to the company culture also motivates me every day.

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

Balancing day-to-day operational tasks with strategic development is often challenging. I handle this by setting clear priorities, managing time efficiently, and relying on a strong team. My experience also helps me stay pragmatic and focused.

Which value speaks to you the most and why?

Integrity. Trust is the foundation of any successful collaboration. As an HR manager, it’s especially important for me to make decisions transparently, fairly, and clearly. That’s how we build a culture of trust, where people can truly thrive.

What’s it like for you being a woman in your profession?

Being a woman in the security industry is an opportunity to bring new perspectives and promote diversity. At Protectas, diversity is valued, and the work environment is open and supportive. That said, it also takes courage, confidence, and sometimes resilience – qualities I’ve developed over time.

What advice would you give to women who want to work in the security sector?

Stay true to yourself and believe in your strengths – both personal and professional. The security sector offers many exciting opportunities, even for women who move forward with clarity and commitment. Building a network and supporting one another are key success factors.