The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) based in Alicante has begun the search for the next executive director of the European Union organization established in 1996 to oversee trademark and design protection across the bloc. The current director, Christian Archambeau, is stepping down at the end of September 2023 after serving since October 2018.
The Administrative Council of EUIPO recently declined to renew Archambeau for another term. In a vote that did not meet the threshold for automatic reelection, eleven members supported renewal, seven voted against it, and twelve abstained, leaving the position open for a new candidate. The vacancy has been publicly announced with a deadline for applications, inviting qualified individuals to apply for the role starting October 1 of the following year. The posted base annual salary is 17,639.97 euros, with potential supplements depending on family status and dependents.
Archambeau has led the organization since 2018, becoming the fourth president in the body’s history since its inception as OMI in 1996. His request for a term extension was not approved by the single-member Administrative Council, which comprises representatives from each EU member state along with a representative from the European Commission and the European Parliament.
EUIPO Board declines renewal of Christian Archambeau as director
Before Archambeau, EUIPO was headed by Jean-Claude Combaldieu (1996–2000), Wubbo de Boer (2000–2010), and António Campinos (2010–2018). The incoming executive director will therefore be the fifth leader of the office.
The role is independent in its day-to-day duties and does not take instructions from any government or external body, though it remains accountable to the European Commission. Among the applicant requirements are citizenship of a EU27 country, a maximum age of 61, and a minimum of 15 years of work experience, with five years in a role comparable to the office’s functions. Experience in managing a large organization and familiarity with European IP policy are important. Proficiency in languages beyond the applicant’s mother tongue is also required, with a strong command of English, German, French, Spanish, or Italian at advanced levels.
Prospective candidates will participate in qualifying interviews conducted in Alicante, with interviews held in a language other than the candidate’s mother tongue. The ultimate appointment will be decided by the EU Council on the basis of the panel’s recommendations. The selection process emphasizes equal opportunity and explicitly states that candidates are evaluated without regard to gender, race, color, ethnic or social origin, genetic characteristics, language, religion, political beliefs, nationality, property, birth, disability, age, or sexual orientation.
EUIPO stands as one of the EU’s largest decentralized bodies, managing a substantial budget and a wide network of authorities across Europe. The office operates in all official EU languages and supports activities including a major focus on piracy control and enforcement.
EUIPO leadership and the path forward
As the organization transitions to new leadership, the emphasis remains on strengthening intellectual property protection across member states. The future director will navigate complex EU policy environments, coordinate with national IP offices, and uphold the office’s mission to ensure effective protection of trademarks and designs. The ongoing work includes improving access to IP rights, enhancing enforcement cooperation, and promoting innovation within the European single market.
In the context of EU policy, the appointment process highlights transparency, merit, and a commitment to equal opportunity. The new executive director will need to demonstrate strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and a deep understanding of the EUIP framework and its impact on businesses, creators, and consumers alike.