Intense competition for EU cabinet positions heats up as new Commission begins term

The new European Commission, led by Ursula von der Leyen, began its term this month. Intense competition for cabinet positions has emerged, with officials and advisers vying for limited roles. The number of cabinet posts has decreased, and hiring rules have changed. Commissioners can now hire only two staff from their own country, down from three, and must maintain a gender balance. Hundreds applied for the few available positions, with notable hires including Fiona Knab-Lunny and Kevin Barrett in Ireland's cabinet. The job search began as early as April, intensifying over the summer. Many roles were filled through swaps between countries, reflecting diplomatic influence in Brussels. Some cabinets were only finalized recently, indicating ongoing changes within the Commission.