The European Cyber Security Organisation (ECSO) announced Wednesday that Joanna Świątkowska has been appointed as its new Secretary General, effective 1 July 2025. The decision was made during the ECSO Board of Directors meeting held on 25 June as part of The ECSO Days 2025. Dr. Świątkowska will succeed Dr. Luigi Rebuffi, ECSO’s founding Secretary General.
With over 16 years of experience in cybersecurity, Dr Świątkowska brings a unique cross-sector perspective to her new role at ECSO. Her career spans leadership positions across the private sector, academia and civil society, and close collaboration with public administration nationally and internationally.
She was listed among Eastern Europe’s 100 Emerging Technology Stars by the Financial Times & New Europe 100 for 2017, as well as included among the Top 20 Women in Cybersecurity by the Women in Tech Summit for 2019. She is a proud godmother of the regimental colours of the Regional Computing Center Kraków.
Previously serving as Deputy Secretary General of ECSO, Dr Świątkowska has been instrumental in shaping European cybersecurity policy, fostering international collaboration, and driving strategic coordination efforts. Her appointment ensures a new chapter in ECSO’s mission to strengthen Europe’s cybersecurity ecosystem and promote strategic digital autonomy through public-private cooperation.
Świątkowska said her vision for ECSO is to actively support three strategic goals for Europe’s cybersecurity.
“First, turning Europe into a cybersecurity powerhouse by strengthening our market, talent, and technological leadership. Second, enhancing Europe’s cyber defence and resilience in the face of growing geopolitical tensions and hybrid threats. And third, shaping Europe’s global role in cybersecurity by contributing to international standards, strategic partnerships, and global influence. We will pursue these goals by staying true to ECSO’s core mission: fostering public-private partnership and empowering cybersecurity communities across Europe.”
“I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to my predecessor, Dr. Luigi Rebuffi, ECSO’s founder and long-standing leader, for his vision, dedication, and tireless work in building the organisation’s foundations and reputation. It is a great honour to continue this legacy”.
Rebuffi, founder and secretary general since ECSO’s creation in 2016, has played a central role in shaping the organisation and advancing European cybersecurity. Under his leadership, ECSO became a trusted partner for institutions, industry, and the research community across Europe.
