On Thursday 21 February 2008, Nadia Calviño, the European Commission's Deputy Director General for Mergers, Cartels and Antitrust, spoke at a FEW event.

Nadia spoke about her background in the civil service in Spain. Before joining the European Commission she worked in the Spanish Ministry for Economy occupying different positions in the areas of foreign trade, macroeconomic forecasting, economic policy and competition. Nadia specialised in antitrust issues in Spain for more than nine years; first as senior antitrust case handler, then Deputy Director General for Legal Affairs, Deputy Director General for Mergers and finally, from May 2004, Director General for Competition. During her time as Director General, Nadia played a leading role in relation to the recently introduced Spanish competition legislation.

In September 2006, Nadia was appointed the European Commission's Deputy Director General for Mergers. At the beginning of September 2007 her responsibilities were extended to cartels and antitrust.

Nadia talked to FEW members about the differences between Spain and Europe in terms of the promotion and support of female officials. There are now a number of women in high-profile positions at the European Commission. Nadia attributed her career progression to a willingness to accept new challenges and opportunities whenever they came along.  She also emphasised the importance of a supportive family and colleagues.


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