The Hague, 12 October 2022 – Mr Evert van Walsum has been appointed as the new Administrative Director of Eurojust by the College of the Agency. In his new role, Mr van Walsum will be responsible for the day-to-day administration and implementation of key organisational developments such as the recent extension of Eurojust’s mandate and comprehensive digitalisation efforts. Mr van Walsum (53) is currently serving the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) as Head of Investors and Issuers Department and will take up his duties at the beginning of 2023, serving a term of four years.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr van Walsum stated: ‘It is an honour and great pleasure to take up this new role, and I look forward to working with Eurojust’s highly dedicated staff. Both the importance and acknowledgment of the Agency’s work have grown strongly over the years. I am fully committed to contribute to our common goal of getting justice done across the European Union and beyond.’
Eurojust President Mr Ladislav Hamran said: ‘I warmly welcome Mr van Walsum and look forward to our close cooperation. The coming years will be eventful and challenging, as we are about to implement the extension of our mandate and significantly modernise our existing working methods. I am certain that Mr van Walsum’s proven managerial track record will make a positive difference while we navigate these changes. Fortunately, Mr van Walsum will be able to build on the excellent work of his predecessor, Mr Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos, whom I would like to thank for all that he has done for our Agency.’
Evert van Walsum is a Dutch national who held managerial positions of increasing responsibility at National and European financial regulators. He holds a Masters in Law from the University of Amsterdam and a MBA from INSEAD Fontainebleau and Singapore. Mr van Walsum started his career in banking in the Netherlands after which he transitioned to the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) where he worked in several managerial roles in the markets area and in the field of investor protection. His last position at the AFM was Head of the Capital Markets Department. As Head of Investors and Issuers Department at the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), he was responsible for coordination and convergence of supervision by national competent authorities in the European Union.
Background on selection procedure and Administrative Director role
The new Administrative Director was appointed by the College of Eurojust, which is the highest decision making body within the Agency, following an extensive selection procedure.
The Administrative Director of Eurojust oversees the day-to-day administration and staff management, ensuring full support to the operational work of the Agency. This includes ensuring administrative support of the President and Vice-Presidents, and implementing decisions taken by the College and Executive Board of Eurojust. The Administrative Director moreover steers the preparation of all major reporting documents, action plans, financial planning and new strategies.
