Behind every successful project are people who coordinate, connect and continuously look for ways to make things work better.
As Operations Manager for the AV Library of DG COMM, Dorina manages a team of around 20 people and combines operational management, people development and continuous improvement in a complex European institutional environment.
With five years of middle-management experience on European Commission projects, as well as previous experience as a trainer and translator, Dorina has developed a role where communication and people are at the heart of her daily work.
Combining operations with people management
Dorina’s responsibilities cover both the operational and human sides of the project. From timesheets, activity reports and absence management to operational meetings and team communication, her role is about keeping activities running smoothly while maintaining strong connections with the people involved.
“One aspect of my role that is particularly close to my heart is creating spaces for communication within the team, where everyone can express themselves and feel heard.”
For Dorina, one of the key challenges is finding the right balance between communication with WESTPOLE and with the client, while remaining focused on solutions and achieving the best possible outcome for everyone involved.
Growing expertise in audiovisual archiving and AI
Working within the audiovisual archives environment has also allowed Dorina to develop expertise in a field that was completely new to her. Alongside her knowledge of European Commission institutional processes and people management, she is increasingly involved in AI, both through its use in her own work and through its implementation within the project. For Dorina, AI represents one of the major changes currently shaping the field, alongside the growing importance of audiovisual archives in communication.
Helping people grow
If there is one element that stands out in Dorina’s approach to management, it is her focus on people. She particularly enjoys seeing colleagues develop new skills and finding ways to connect individual talents with the needs of the project.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been finding ways to help others perform well and grow.”
This people-oriented approach also shapes her vision of leadership: creating space for communication, encouraging development and finding practical solutions that enable both individuals and projects to move forward.
Working at the heart of the European environment
Having studied European affairs for many years and with a longstanding interest in politics, working on European Commission projects has allowed Dorina to combine several of her interests. She particularly values seeing behind the scenes of the European Commission’s communication activities while working in a creative environment. Her advice for consultants considering a career within the European Institutions is straightforward:
“Have a clear idea of why you want to work with the EU and what you can bring to the table in your field. There will always be a need for people who can bring value and expertise. Also, get to know the right people and never stop networking. Building connections is key.”
Growing together with WESTPOLE
Stability and opportunities for growth were important factors in Dorina’s decision to work with WESTPOLE, together with the opportunity to contribute to a European Commission project.
What does she value most about the collaboration?
“I really appreciate the professionalism of the WESTPOLE team. Things get done, and usually quickly.”
For Dorina, WESTPOLE’s combination of professionalism, adaptability and focus on results is particularly valuable when operating within a complex institutional environment where needs can evolve quickly. Looking ahead, Dorina would like to continue developing her career by taking on greater responsibility, particularly in strategic operations. And if she had to describe her profession in just one sentence?
“Supporting the people who preserve, organise and share the EU’s audiovisual archives, helping citizens see and understand the work of the European Commission.”
Thank you, Dorina, for sharing your experience and giving us a look behind the scenes of your role. Through our EU Role Spotlight series, we want to highlight the people, expertise and diverse assignments behind WESTPOLE’s work with the European Institutions.