I started my career around the time Poland joined the EU in 2004. We spent many hours at my business university discussing the challenges and opportunities for the 10 countries that joined the bloc in that year. When the chance came to become an EU civil servant, I applied immediately, as the advantages are numerous. There is a truly multicultural environment in the European Commission, a unique opportunity to influence the EU from the inside, with excellent career growth and flexible employment conditions. I also meet the people who decide in which direction the EU should go.
We often forget that the European Commission benefits the people of the continent in so many ways. There is the single currency, free movement of people and goods, protection of consumer rights, health and safety standards for our food, and great research leading to improvements in many sectors. Others are far less significant, but still make life much easier, such as no roaming fees or being able to stream your favourite content when travelling in the EU.
Future generations need the skills to navigate dis- and misinformation
I started out as an internal auditor in the Budget department, which helped me understand how the EU Budget is constructed. In 2012 I decided to leave the Commission temporarily and for 18 months, I worked at an international NGO in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, taking care of its country finances and operations. I have been back with the Commission for 10 years now. My career is evolving around budget, finance and resources management, with a new role starting this April in the humanitarian field.
What I enjoy about my job is that every day is different. I might negotiate a lease contract for a building in Romania one day, go to Greenland the following day, and finish off the week discussing a major internal reorganisation. Furthermore, we have over 10 different nationalities in my immediate team and have great discussions on a range of subjects, and not always about work, so it is a very cheerful environment.
My favourite quote is: ‘The impossible we do at once; miracles take a little longer.’ It is difficult to trace back its origin, but it’s my favourite quotation and is what I keep in mind when I am engaging with stakeholders.
I am currently into ‘Frozen’, unicorns and fairies
If I had law-making powers, I would want access to quality education for all children that explores critical thinking and decision-making. It is of paramount importance that our future generations have the tools and skills to navigate through the growing amount of dis- and misinformation.
When travelling, I like staying in small hotels and B&Bs. I am also at ease in the kitchen, so if I wasn’t in finance, maybe I would run a hospitality business.
My two very young daughters, soon to be joined by a sister, take up most of my free time, and I am currently into Frozen, unicorns and fairies. I also enjoy a good read and I cook to relax. I look forward to when the kids have grown up a little so we can enjoy travelling, sports and concerts together.
