Mission Protectas: Cindy Schmied

Who are you in a few words?

My name is Cindy. I am a dynamic, passionate, and determined person who loves taking on new challenges and giving my best in everything I do. Teamwork, problem-solving, and a strong commitment to excellence are values that define me.

What motivated you to work at Protectas?

I was drawn to the opportunity to work in a structured and professional environment, where security, responsibility, and diversity are at the core of the job.

I also saw it as an exciting challenge to establish myself in a traditionally male-dominated field. Moreover, the many opportunities for personal and professional growth in this industry convinced me to pursue this career.

Can you tell us about your beginnings at Protectas?

I joined Protectas in the autumn of 2015 as a security officer, a profession I quickly learned to appreciate for its diversity and the responsibilities it entails. This role immersed me in a dynamic environment where vigilance, responsiveness, and professionalism are essential every day.

The experience I gained in the field allowed me to develop strong skills in security management, surveillance, access control, and conflict resolution, as well as many other aspects of the job.

Ensuring the protection of people and property requires constant attention, a thorough understanding of procedures, and a strong ability to adapt to unforeseen situations. Every challenge has been a learning opportunity, strengthening my ability to make quick decisions, communicate effectively, and manage stress with composure.

I also had the opportunity to work in various environments and alongside team-oriented colleagues who share a strong sense of collaboration. Team cohesion and mutual support are fundamental values in this profession, where security relies above all on effective teamwork and mutual trust.

What are you responsible for now?

Since January 1st, 2025, I have been working as a Branch Manager Operation for the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). My main responsibilities include managing teams, ensuring high-quality services, optimizing resources, maintaining smooth operations, and developing continuous improvement strategies.

What do you enjoy about your job?

The human aspect, team management, and the diversity of situations I encounter every day. No two days are the same, and I particularly enjoy working closely with my teams and handling unexpected challenges.

What is the biggest challenge in your job, and how do you handle it?

Time management and organization are ongoing challenges, especially when unexpected situations disrupt the daily schedule. Between urgent matters, team needs, and operational demands, balancing everything can be complex.

To tackle this, I rely on rigorous planning, anticipating tasks, and setting clear priorities. Communication with my team is also essential—good dialogue helps us quickly find solutions and adapt efficiently. Lastly, I maintain a flexible approach, which is crucial in an environment where adaptability is key.

Which value resonates with you the most and why?

The value that resonates with me the most is integrity. It is fundamental in our profession, as it creates a climate of trust and respect, both within teams and with clients. Being a person of integrity means acting fairly and responsibly in all circumstances.

Trust is the foundation of any successful collaboration—without it, building strong and lasting relationships is impossible.

How do you feel working as a woman in your field?

The security sector has historically been male-dominated, but things are changing. Personally, I have never seen this as a barrier. It is essential to prove yourself through professionalism, competence, and dedication.

It sometimes takes time to gain recognition, but ultimately, skills and results matter most. The key is to believe in yourself, stay determined, and never doubt your legitimacy.

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

Go for it and don’t let yourself be intimidated! The security industry is demanding, but with determination, dedication, and a willingness to grow, it is entirely possible to thrive and advance.

The world is changing, and so is the perception of professions and gender roles. Today, what truly matters is competence and commitment, not gender.

Everyone has the chance to succeed in this field—as long as they are perseverant, self-confident, and true to their values.