Ann, European Commission
What do you work on?
"Hello, my name is Ann Mennens. I work in the Directorate-General for Digital Services at the European Commission, in the Cybersecurity Directorate, where I lead the CyberAware team for the entire Commission. It is the program that takes care of the human factor in cybersecurity.
With CyberAware, we cater to all our colleagues because we see them as the first line of defense for the Commission, they help us keep the Commission secure. We do this by training them and providing targeted briefings for Commissioners, VIPs, system owners, and technical profiles, adapting every training to their specific context."
What do you enjoy most about your job?
"No two days are the same, and I love that variety. The cybersecurity threat landscape changes constantly, and so does our work: from communications to training.
What I enjoy most, however, is interacting with colleagues and helping them upskill in cybersecurity. I love working through networks of people to spread key messages and seeing that shift when they realize why their role is vital in protecting the Commission."
One tip for someone considering applying for the ICT competition:
"My golden tip: believe in yourself and apply! And of course, prepare well! We need you as a cybersecurity expert in the European institutions."
Juan, Council of the European Union
What do you work on?
"Hello, my name is Juan Panadero and I'm working in the Product and Service Development Unit at the General Secretariat of the Council. My focus is managing data and AI projects, and we are currently building a new data and AI platform for all Council staff. It's an exciting project where you never stop learning new things every day, the data and AI fields are changing so quickly that you're always on your toes, and this is really motivating for me."
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The multicultural environment is fantastic! You get to connect with people from all over Europe and learn from their experience, and honestly, it feels like a family here. The Council really understands the importance of work-life balance, especially with flexible working arrangements. There are also great opportunities for career development, you can even change jobs within the EU institutions if you fancy a new challenge. In my case, I started in an agency, then moved to the European Parliament for a couple of years, then to the European Commission, and in 2024 I arrived at the Council."
One tip for someone considering applying for the ICT competition:
My one tip for you is: start preparing now! Seriously, don't leave it for the last minute. A little bit every day, a couple of hours, makes a huge difference. Also, dive into the EPSO website, check the competition notice carefully, look at past competitions for inspiration, and review previous test examples. And if you have the opportunity to connect with previous candidates who've been through the process already, do it! They'll give you some insider tips.
Good luck!"