Pros
I served 21 years in the Marine Corps and most recently retired for a career with GDBA. I have been with the company for about 8 weeks now. I can tell you that there are some long hours however, I can also tell you there are some tremendous opportunities as well. In the 8 short weeks that I have been with GDBA, I have done field details and Command Center Work. GDBA does not try to mask the fact that even the most senior protectors work in command centers, it is what makes us the best EP firm in the world. The attitude and the willingness that you show while in those command centers determines if you will work field details and travel with clients. I have read some other reviews and see that there are complaints about the long hours, lack of opportunities and nepotism. Like I said up front there have been long hours however, you are properly compensated for those hours. On one occasion I was asked last minute to cover a detail, which was the next day and my willingness to do so lead to a small bonus as well. As far as lack of opportunities I could not disagree more there seems to be a new opportunity every day. The comment about nepotism is completely wrong as well. When I applied to GDBA I didn’t know a single person in the firm. I believe the disgruntled employee’s will probably be disgruntled employees somewhere else as well. If you are looking for an easy job than GDBA is not for you. If you are looking for a job that is challenging and that will require you to think outside the box then I strongly recommend GDBA.
Cons
If you are not a team player you will not like this firm. This job is about the client and you have to be 100% dedicated to the mission. To be successful at GDBA you really have to look at being a protector as a way of life and not necessarily a job. If you are just looking for a job there is probably a better option.