Brussels, 7 July 2026
The European Commission has transferred in the interest of the service Maive Rute as Deputy Director-General for the Joint Research Centre (JRC). This department carries out research in various fields to provide independent advice to EU policymakers and put science at the heart of European policies. This decision takes effect on 1 September 2026.
With over three decades of professional experience in innovation, economic transformation and investment, Ms Rute brings extensive strategic and operational expertise to her new role. More specifically, her experience spans macroeconomic policy, climate and energy transition, standardisation and public procurement, supported by extensive collaboration with EU institutions, industry and academia.
Throughout her career, she has developed a strong track record in driving systemic change, from pioneering work on green finance and digital currencies in central banking to shaping the EU’s bioeconomy strategy and sustainable industrial policies. She has consistently translated scientific and technological innovation into policy and economic impact, notably through the management of flagship programmes such as Horizon 2020, the establishment of public-private partnerships including the Bio-based Industries Joint Undertaking, and the development of initiatives such as the Enterprise Europe Network to strengthen SME competitiveness. Ms Rute also brings extensive management experience, having led multidisciplinary teams and complex programmes in demanding policy environments. Her broad experience and management profile provide a solid foundation for supporting the Director-General in guiding the Joint Research Centre and advancing the Commission’s scientific and innovation priorities.
Maive Rute, an Estonian national, is currently Deputy Director-General of the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROW). Previously, she served as Deputy Director-General at the Joint Research Centre (JRC), where she oversaw research in the fields of energy, transport and climate. Earlier in her career at the European Commission, she was Director for Resources and, before that, Director for Biotechnologies and Agriculture Research in the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD). Prior to joining the Commission in 2005, she held positions in the banking sector and in consultancy.
Source – EU Commission