"What do you work on?

Hi, I am David, Head of Sector for Cybersecurity Operations in unit DIGIT.S02.

Our unit is responsible for defending the European Commission against cybersecurity threats. This means we are primarily focused on incident response, threat detection, intelligence, and all related technical activities. Additionally, we provide crisis management, communications, and legal support whenever required.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

What I enjoy most is the people I work with. Over the years, the unit has grown significantly. We have onboarded many new colleagues bringing diverse cultures, varied skill sets, and complementary expertise which is truly the core strength of our team.

On a personal level, I’ve had the chance to lead and participate in many different activities over time. No two days are ever the same, every day brings a new challenge, and you never get bored.

What is your top tip for someone considering applying for an EU competition?

My first piece of advice is simple: Apply!

To prepare effectively:

Familiarise yourself with the process: Look closely at the competition structure and the type of questions asked so nothing comes as a surprise.

Understand the institutions: Research what the EU institutions are doing, the specific topics they focus on, and the day-to-day activities expected in the role.

Network: Try to reach out to people already working here. In general, colleagues are very open and happy to share their experiences."