# Director-General

- Link: https://euemployment.eu/glossary/director-general/
- Published: 2024-02-28T19:48:53+01:00
- Author: Ben

A Director-General in the [European Commission](https://euemployment.eu/glossary/european-commission/)
is the highest-ranking civil servant. The position is equivalent to a State Secretary
in an EU member state ministry.

The Director-General is responsible for setting the strategic direction and ensuring
the effective functioning of the [Directorate-General](https://euemployment.eu/glossary/directorate-general/)
in fulfilling its mandate.

The role of the Director-General includes overseeing the development and implementation
of EU policies and legislation within their specific area of competence, managing
staff and resources, and ensuring that the Directorate-General’s activities align
with the broader priorities and objectives of the EU. They report to the EU [Commissioner](https://euemployment.eu/glossary/commissioner/)
in charge of their policy area and collaborate closely with other Directorates-General,
EU institutions, and member states.

Director-Generals are key figures in the EU’s decision-making process, providing
expert advice and support to the [Commissioners](https://euemployment.eu/glossary/commissioner/)
and contributing to the formulation of EU policies. They also represent the EU in
international negotiations and discussions relevant to their field of expertise.
The position demands a high level of leadership, diplomatic skills, policy knowledge,
and the ability to manage complex organizational structures and processes.