The Frontex Management Board decided last week that Aija Kalnaja will serve as Executive Director ad interim of the Agency as of 1 July.
Ms Kalnaja, previously Deputy Executive Director for Standing Corps Management, was deputising for the Executive Director since May. She will continue leading the agency with the support of Uku Sarekanno, Deputy Executive Director for Information Management and Processes and Lars Gerdes, Deputy Executive Director for Returns and Operations.
The executive management team will focus on strengthening the operational activities of Frontex and continuing its support to Member States and our partners outside the European Union. The agency is currently deploying more than 2200 officers and staff at and beyond EU’s external borders in 17 operations.
Frontex provides operational support and situational awareness to Member States and Schengen Associated Countries in full compliance with fundamental rights, the principles of rule of law and ensuring transparency in all its activities.
The vacancy for a new Executive Director was published by the European Commission on 21 June. The deadline for applications is 19 July. Following a recruitment procedure, the new Executive Director will be appointed by the Frontex Management Board on the basis of a shortlist provided by the Commission.