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Staff exchange programmes

Staff exchange programmes

The EUAN Staff Exchange Programme (SEP) is a unique initiative that gives staff from EU Agencies and Joint Undertakings (JUs) the opportunity to work in another organisation for a set period of time. It helps staff share knowledge, gain new skills, and strengthen cooperation across the Network.  

By working in a different Agency or JU, participants experience new ways of working, discover different policy areas, and bring back fresh ideas to their home organisation.  

The Programme supports the EU’s wider goal of a modern, skilled and collaborative public administration.

What we aim to achieve

The Staff Exchange Programme aims to make collaboration and learning across Agencies and JUs a practical reality. Through the Programme, we want to: 

  • share knowledge and expertise across the Network
  • support professional development through exposure to new methods and policy areas
  • strengthen collaboration, innovation and trust among Agencies and JUs
  • build a more effective EU public service by using resources and skills collectively

What we do

This exchange enriches both the hosting and sending organisations, reinforcing the EUAN’s ability to deliver better services through collective expertise.

  • Who can participate?

    Staff (e.g. Contract Agents, Temporary Agents, Permanent Officials) from EU Agencies and JUs covering all business and support functions of Agencies/JUs.

  • How does it work?

    Staff are temporarily (between 1 month and 1 year) hosted by another Agency or JU, gaining firsthand experience of different working methods, regulatory environments, and thematic areas.

Impact and results

The EUAN Staff Exchange Programme is a win-win for EU Agencies and JUs, their staff, and European citizens. It delivers:

  • new skills and perspectives – staff gain practical experience and expand their expertise.

  • smarter solutions – sharing ideas helps Agencies find better ways to address challenges.

  • career growth – participants open new doors for their professional future in the EU network

This Programme helps EU Agencies and JUs work better together, ensuring that expertise is shared, resources are used wisely, and European citizens benefit from a stronger, more connected public service.  

Since its launch in February 2024, several EU Agencies—including the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation (EUROJUST), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and the European Banking Authority (EBA)— have taken part in reciprocal staff exchanges, allowing professionals to gain new insights and contribute their expertise in a different working environment. 

The SEP has a tangible impact on both organisations and participants. Staff members who have joined the Programme share their experiences. Their stories below offer a behind-the-scenes look at how the EUAN SEP enhances professional development, cross-agency collaboration, and the personal career path.