Brussels, 12 June 2024
Today, the European Commission has decided to appoint Fernando Andresen Guimaraes to the function of Director for Directorate ‘International Ocean Governance and sustainable fisheries’ at Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE). This Commission department aims to develop the potential of the European maritime economy and to secure sustainable fisheries, a stable supply of seafood, healthy seas and prosperous coastal communities. The date of effect will be determined later.
In his new role, Mr Andresen Guimaraes, a Portuguese national, will draw on his extensive professional experience, spanning nearly 35 years across various relevant sectors, including over 20 years in management positions in different EU bodies. He is highly regarded for his strong leadership and management abilities, excellent analytical skills, results-oriented approach, and effective strategic coordination. His vast experience and expertise in international diplomacy and governance will be invaluable in representing the Commission in meetings and high-level negotiations in relevant international forums.
Andresen Guimaraes is currently serving as Diplomatic Adviser to the President of the European Commission. Previously, he was Head of Division for Policy Coordination at the European External Action Service, supporting the High Representative/Vice-President (HRVP). He also served as Acting Director for Interinstitutional Relations, Policy Coordination, and Public Diplomacy and in a similar capacity for Russia, Eastern Partnership, Central Asia, Regional Cooperation, and the OSCE. Earlier in his career, he also took on the role of Head of Division for Russia and Head of Division for the United States and Canada.
Fernando Andresen Guimaraes was a Member of the Cabinet of former Commission President José Manuel Barroso, where he contributed to the development of the EU Integrated Maritime Policy Communication and accompanying Action Plan in October 2007, covering a wide range of issues such as maritime transport, the competitiveness of maritime businesses and marine environment protection.
Before joining the Commission in 2004, he worked as a Coordination Officer at the Department of Peacekeeping Operations for the United Nations and served at the Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations. Mr Andresen Guimaraes holds a PhD in International Relations.
Source – EU Commission