The European Banking Authority (EBA) today launched an open selection procedure to recruit a new Executive Director, following the appointment of François-Louis Michaud as Chair of the EBA on 16 April 2026. The successful candidate will work directly with the Chairperson, overseeing the Authority's operational management, including the development and implementation of its work programme and preparing Management Board meetings. The selection will be based on merit, skills, and experience in financial supervision and regulation, with the chosen candidate appointed by the EBA Board of Supervisors and confirmed by the European Parliament.
Leadership transition and interim appointment Michaud's promotion to Chair created the vacancy for the Executive Director role. Pending the completion of the selection procedure, Jonathan Overett Somnier, Head of the EBA’s Legal and Compliance Unit, has been appointed Acting Executive Director. The vacancy notice is available in all EU official languages on the EBA website under the Careers section.
Recent EBA activities and context The recruitment comes amid a busy period for the EBA. On 16 April 2026, the EBA published a draft technical package for version 4.3 of its reporting framework, introducing new anti-money laundering and third-country branch reporting requirements, with a consultation open until 10 May 2026. Earlier, on 14 April 2026, the EBA and the European Central Bank's Joint Bank Reporting Committee launched a call for expressions of interest for its Reporting Contact Group, seeking up to 22 members with expertise in supervisory reporting. On 13 April 2026, the EBA published a report on banks' recovery plan dry run testing, revealing wide variation in effectiveness across institutions.
Impact on stakeholders The leadership change is expected to have a moderate impact on the EBA's internal operations and strategic direction. For the EBA itself, the new Executive Director will shape the implementation of its work programme and regulatory priorities, including the ongoing simplification of the Single Rulebook and the implementation of Basel III in Europe. National competent authorities and EU banks may see continuity or shifts in supervisory convergence efforts and reporting requirements, depending on the new director's approach. The European Parliament gains a confirmation role, reinforcing its oversight of EU agencies. The recruitment process is open and transparent, aiming to attract candidates with strong regulatory experience.
← Atlas › News › EU affairs & Institutions