I hold a degree in Chemistry from the University of Thessaloniki and a Master's degree in Food Science from the University of Gothenburg. My professional journey has shaped my expertise in various domains.
Following my five-year experience at a prominent beverage company in Greece, I joined the European Commission in 2001. Over two decades, I gained experience in the field of food safety, in areas such as food additives, enzymes, and food contact materials and in the past 12 years in the area of pharmaceuticals.
Since May 2017, I am Head of Unit SANTE D.1 'Medicines: policy, authorisation, and monitoring’ and have taken up the role of acting Director in SANTE D: 'Medical products and Innovation' since March 2023.
My professional journey has equipped me with extensive knowledge and skills in health policies, risk assessment, management and communication. Throughout my career, I have navigated complex stakeholder landscapes and negotiated with the European Parliament and the Council on proposals related to food and pharmaceuticals. In close collaboration with Member States and European Agencies, such as the European Food Safety Authority and the European Medicines Agency, I have fostered fruitful partnerships. Beyond the European stage, my influence has extended to international forums. Notably, I successfully negotiated food standards within the Codex Alimentarius and spearheaded activities pertaining to bilateral and multilateral relations with global partners in the pharmaceutical field.
I have guided my team through preparedness and crisis management activities during crucial events such as Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, including the expedited authorisation of vaccines and therapeutics. One of my notable achievements lies in my pivotal role in shaping the Pharmaceutical Strategy for Europe. Moreover, I led the implementation of this strategy, including the adoption in April 2023 of a comprehensive package of proposals for the revision of the pharmaceutical legislation.