Inside EU Careers

With nearly 30 years of EU experience, Mina shares her journey from translator to Director of the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO). As she nears the end of her five-year mandate, she has valuable insights into the EU selection process, EPSO’s role and the essential skills for today’s civil servants — along with plenty of practical tips. Key takeaways: 👉🏽 Navigating EU Recruitment – Min...

In this episode, Sevim Aktas chats with András Baneth, founder of EUTraining. 🌍✨ András shares his top strategies for passing the EU selection process, known as the EPSO exams and covers everything you need to know to start your EU career. If you're looking for insider advice, this is a must-listen for you. Key takeaways: 👉🏽 Mastering EPSO Exams – Practical advice on time management, under...

In this episode, host Sevim Aktas chats with Hanah Lahe, the youngest Hanah shares how she balanced politics and a master’s degree, ran creative campaigns, and overcame stereotypes as a young female politician. Whether you’re a student, activist, or aspiring policymaker, this episode offers practical tips on networking, authenticity, and making an impact. Key Takeaways: 👉🏽 Entering Politics as a...

In this episode, Sevim Aktas chats with Tim McPhie, spokesperson for energy and climate at the European Commission. 🌍✨ Tim shares his career journey—from law school to EU communications—and reflects on how Brussels’ messaging strategies have evolved over the years. He offers insights into disinformation challenges, lessons from EU election campaigns, and practical tips for young professionals pu...

In this episode,  Sevim Aktas  chats with  Jean Marcel Akono , an APA for a Green MEP, about breaking into  EU politics . 🌍✨ Jean shares his career journey—from internships to policy work—and offers  practical tips  on  applications, networking, and thriving in Brussels. Main Takeaways: 👉🏽  What Does an APA Do?  – Jean unpacks the diverse tasks APAs handle, from policy briefs to office managem...

In this episode,  Sevim Aktas  chats with  Elias Kuehn von Burgsdorff , speechwriter for  European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen . 🌍✨ Elias shares his journey from  history and economics  to crafting speeches for Europe’s top leader—plus  tips on storytelling, clarity, and impact. Key Takeaways: 👉🏽  Mastering Speechwriting Skills  – Elias highlights storytelling, logical argument s...

In this episode,  Sevim Aktas  answers  your top questions about the EU —from  jobs and career advice  to  time management  and building a  social media platform  on  climate and energy.  🌍✨ Perfect for  Brussels newbies ,  EU job seekers , and anyone curious about  how EU institutions work. Key Takeaways: 👉🏽  Jobs in EU Institutions  – Application tips for EU and non-EU citizens, including Bl...

In this episode, Sevim Aktas chats with Christian Holzleitner, head of the Land Economy and Carbon Removals Unit at the European Commission. 🌍✨ Christian shares his career journey—from a working-class background to EU climate leadership—and offers practical tips on leadership, embracing uncertainty, and building a career in sustainability. Whether you’re an aspiring policymaker, climate advocate...

In this episode,  Sevim Aktas  talks with  Kurt Vandenberghe ,  Director General of DG CLIMA  and former  EU Green Deal advisor  to  President von der Leyen . 🌍✨ Kurt shares a  behind-the-scenes look  at  EU climate policy , its  challenges , and what’s  next for the Green Deal . He also reflects on his  unconventional career path —from  philology to climate leadership —and offers  practical tip...