The European Commission decided on several new appointments at management level at its Collège meeting on 11 July 2023
The European Commission has decided to transfer in the interests of the service Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen to the function of Director-General for Education and Culture (DG EAC). This Commission department is responsible for policy on education, culture, youth and sport. The date of effect of this appointment will be determined later.
With a breadth of experience of nearly 30 years across multiple EU policy areas, Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen brings with her a wealth of expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the intricate workings of multiple EU policies. Having held numerous management positions, she has a proven track record in successful leadership and management practices across several Commission departments. Her extensive background in communication and refined ability to articulate ideas, tailor messages, and employ various communication channels will also serve her greatly in her new capacity.
Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen, a Danish national, is currently Director General of the Directorate-General for Communication (DG COMM). Between 2018-2019, she served as Deputy Secretary-General of the Commission. Prior to that, she took on the role of Director responsible for Representations within DG COMM. In the earlier stages of her career, she was Chief Spokeswoman of the Commission from 2009 and 2014 after assuming various sectoral spokesperson positions in the preceding years. Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen was recruited by the Commission in 1995, after working in EU public affairs consultancies for several years.