Brussels, 12 June 2024
Today, the European Commission has decided to appoint Pauline Rouch to the function of Director for Directorate ‘Common Policy Centre’ at Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD). This Commission department is responsible for EU policy on research, science and innovation, with a view to help create growth and jobs and tackle our biggest societal challenges. The date of effect will be determined later.
Ms Rouch, a French national, brings with her 22 years of professional experience, including nearly two decades at the Commission. She will leverage her extensive knowledge across various policy areas, particularly focusing on innovation, research, and digital policies, along with her proven leadership, management, and negotiation skills.
Currently, Pauline Rouch heads the office supporting Mario Draghi, the Special Adviser to the Commission President, in preparing a report on the future of European competitiveness. Previously, she served as Head of Cabinet for Mariya Gabriel, former Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth, overseeing, among others, the implementation of the Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe programmes. She was also the Commission representative in Coreper I and Head of Unit at the Secretariat-General of the Commission.
Ms Rouch has also served as a member of the transition team for Ursula von der Leyen in 2019, in the Cabinet of Jean-Claude Juncker, former President of the European Commission, and as Head of Cabinet for Martine Reicherts, former Commissioner for Justice, Fundamental Rights, and Citizenship. Additionally, she was Member of the Cabinet of Viviane Reding, former Vice-President of the European Commission in charge of Justice, Fundamental Rights, and Citizenship.
Before joining the Commission in 2005, Ms Rouch worked in public affairs in Brussels.
Source – EU Commission