What I particularly value is the strong commitment of its members and staff to delivering meaningful results not only for Europe as a whole, but also for the regions and communities that constitute its very foundation.
Can you describe your role at the CoR and what your work involves on a day-to-day basis?
My main focus is on developing and promoting the EU Local Councillors Network, particularly through outreach activities with CoR members, local and regional partners, national associations and the media across Europe. My day-to-day work ranges from developing communication strategies and coordinating promotional campaigns to organising study visits for local councillors to Brussels, with a particular territorial focus on Austria, Germany and other German-speaking areas.
What does working for the European Union mean to you?
For me, working for the European Union means contributing to one of the most remarkable peace, prosperity, and integration projects in human history. Although the success of the European project ultimately depends on the commitment of all European citizens, I am especially motivated by the opportunity to experience first-hand how diverse perspectives, interests, and ideas are brought together within the institutions in Brussels to shape our common future.
What does being part of the Committee of the Regions mean to you?
Being part of the Committee of the Regions means being part of a highly international and diverse community united by a genuine commitment to European integration, while at the same time celebrating and preserving the rich local and regional identities that make Europe unique.
What do you value most about working at the CoR?
Despite its comparatively modest size, the CoR demonstrates remarkable dedication, professionalism, and agility. What I particularly value is the strong commitment of its members and staff to delivering meaningful results not only for Europe as a whole, but also for the regions and communities that constitute its very foundation.
How does your work contribute to the CoR's mission and the European project in practice?
In my role as an Administrator in charge of external communication and outreach activities, I focus particularly on bridging the gap between the EU and subnational levels by working on projects of shared interest. More specifically, I contribute to building up the "EU Local Councillors Network" together with colleagues from the European Commission.
Can you share a project or communication campaign that you are particularly proud of? What made it memorable and what impact did it have?
In August 2026, I coordinated the first structured cooperation between the Austrian region where I was born and raised and the CoR in the framework of the European Forum Alpbach, a prestigious annual gathering that brings together high-level representatives from around the world as well as dedicated local communities from Austria and beyond. Following the very positive response from both representatives and citizens, this pilot project may be further developed and expanded in 2027.
What aspects of working at the CoR surprised you the most?
From the beginning, I was positively surprised by the CoR's proactive approach to the use of modern technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence, in its working environment, as well as by its strong support for partly teleworking from home and, to a more limited extent, also from abroad. Both of these approaches make work more efficient while also making everyday life easier.
How has working in such an international environment contributed to your personal or professional development?
Building on my first Erasmus+ experiences in 2014, I have always wanted to work with people from all over the world. Compared with working in my home country, Austria, an international environment such as Brussels can be more challenging due to the many different languages and cultural specificities. At the same time, however, it is also much more rewarding in terms of learning from one another and experiencing a sense of togetherness in a truly international context.
How would you describe the work-life balance and working culture at the CoR?
Working in the EU environment is certainly suited to people who do not necessarily draw a strict line between their professional and private lives. Brussels really is a unique “bubble”, where friendships often overlap with professional networks and private and working experiences frequently intersect. At the same time, the CoR puts considerable effort into supporting the well-being of its employees and ensuring that everyone can remain healthy and satisfied. Moreover, after the usually very intense months of spring and autumn, the summer and winter periods provide some time to recharge, as the workload tends to decrease significantly.
What do you enjoy most about living and working in Brussels?
The European spirit that can be felt throughout the European Quarter is truly inspiring. Knowing that decisions taken in your own building and in the immediate neighbourhood can help shape the future of an entire continent is something truly extraordinary.
What would you tell someone who is considering applying for a position at the CoR?
Most importantly, I would strongly encourage anyone considering a position at the CoR to first learn about its specific role in EU policymaking. While the CoR may not be the most influential EU institution in strict legal terms, it certainly plays a unique role in bridging the gap between the supranational EU level and the local and regional levels. In this sense, it can be considered a key player in the European integration process, bringing Europe closer to its citizens and strengthening the connection between its communities and the European project.