The European Olympic Committees (EOC) EU Office has appointed Carlotta Giussani (ITA) as its new Director. She succeeds Folker Hellmund (GER), who has led the EOC EU Office in Brussels for 17 years and will conclude his mandate at the end of March 2026.
Since taking office in 2009, when EU sport policy was still in its early stages, Folker Hellmund played a pivotal role in establishing the EOC EU Office as a trusted and respected interlocutor between European institutions and the Olympic Movement. His diplomatic skills, political insight, and steadfast commitment to Olympic values and good governance have left a lasting legacy.
Carlotta Giussani’s appointment embodies both continuity and renewal, marking a new phase for the EOC EU Office. She will build on this strong legacy while ensuring continuity and further strengthening the Office’s strategic positioning within the European landscape and the Olympic Movement at large. As this new chapter begins, the European Olympic Movement expresses gratitude for Folker Hellmund’s dedicated leadership and confidence in Carlotta Giussani’s vision and expertise.
A familiar face within the Olympic Movement and EU institutions, the 35-year-old Italian has worked in Brussels for over eight years, including four years at the EOC EU Office—first as Funding Officer and currently as Head of Funding. During this time, Carlotta has developed a robust network and led strategic initiatives that translate EU policy objectives into tangible governance frameworks and operational actions, covering key areas such as safeguarding, gender equality, and female health in sport.
This new appointment followed a transparent and independent process managed by an external HR consultancy, supported by a selection commission representing the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the EOC, and the EOC EU Office. Launched in autumn 2025, the process attracted over 100 applications. Shortlisted candidates underwent a rigorous multi-round interview procedure, with the final decision approved by the Board in December 2025.
Carlotta Giussani will officially take office on 1 April 2026.
