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eu-LISA is excited to participate in two major career fairs this March - Impactpool Virtual Career Fair and TECONOMY Linz - connecting with IT enthusiasts, students, and young professionals interested in shaping the future of digital Europe.
Impactpool Virtual Career Fair – 20 March 2025 - A unique opportunity for global job seekers to explore career paths within EU agencies. Our recruiters will be available online to discuss roles, application tips, and the skills needed to join our dynamic team.
- TECONOMY Linz – 25 March 2025 - Join us in person at Johannes Kepler University, Linz, from 09:30 to 15:30. Discover exciting job and internship opportunities at eu-LISA and gain valuable insights directly from our team.
Whether online or on-site, don’t miss the chance to connect with us and learn how you can contribute to the digital transformation of Europe!
Career Insights with Eleni Antoniou, Head of Sector in the Security Unit at eu-LISA
What is your background and why did you choose to work for eu-LISA?
I have a background in computer science and cybersecurity, with a deep passion for technology and its role in creating a secure IT environment while protecting personal data. Throughout my career as a software engineer, researcher, and information security officer, I have worked in multinational environments and projects, an experience I truly enjoy!
This passion was one of the key reasons I applied for eu-LISA. Joining the Agency, nearly eight years ago, felt like a natural step as it provided the opportunity to contribute to critical projects in the field of justice and home affairs, supporting both Member States and topic-related Agencies. The mission of eu-LISA aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations.
Throughout my journey in the Agency, I’ve progressed from being a Seconded National Expert to having a security officer position (Temporary Agent). Today, I have the privilege of leading one of the sectors in the Security Unit. This path has been both challenging and rewarding, reinforcing my commitment to cybersecurity and the impact it has on eu-LISA’s broader mission.
Describe your typical workday. What projects are you working on right now?
A typical workday at eu-LISA is dynamic and demanding but highly engaging at the same time and this is its beauty! My responsibilities range from leading and supporting my incredible team in their daily activities, such as developing security standards and policies, conducting security risk assessments, providing security and business continuity expertise for IT-related architectural decisions, and performing security tests and reviews to ensure compliance with standards and legislation. I also take part in audits and collaborate with colleagues from across different teams to improve communication and teamwork.
In addition to these technical responsibilities, managing the team is a key part of my role. This involves setting clear goals, ensuring efficient resource allocation and creating a positive and collaborative work environment. I focus on empowering and motivating my team members by providing guidance, mentoring, and opportunities for professional growth.
Right now, eu-LISA is tasked with developing several new IT systems, making this a particularly challenging yet exciting period for all of us!
From your perspective, what set of skills do you find most valuable for your current work at eu-LISA?
At eu-LISA, a combination of technical expertise and strong soft skills is essential for success. Proficiency in information security and business continuity management enables us to address the demand for security expertise while problem-solving, adaptability and teamwork are key to enabling collaboration across multicultural teams.
From a leadership perspective, strategic thinking, decision making and the ability to motivate and guide the team play a pivotal role in ensuring efficiency and alignment with the Agency’s goals. Additionally, effective communication and a customer-focused approach are vital in navigating the complexities of driving projects forward.
What is the best piece of career advice you have ever received?
One of the best pieces of advice that I got from one of my mentors was ‘Growth begins when you move out of your comfort zone’ and to be honest, it is so true! We all love stability as it makes us feel safe, but true progress happens when we push beyond what feels safe and familiar to us. Staying in your comfort zone may feel good, but it also limits our potential. Growth requires challenges and sometimes even failure, which both serve as valuable learning experiences.
