Verena Ross Takes Up Her Duties As Chair Of The European Securities And Markets Authority

Verena Ross started in her new position as Chair of the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s securities markets regulator, today.

Ms Ross, commenting on her appointment, said:

“I feel very privileged to take on the role of ESMA Chair at such an exciting time.”

“I look forward to leading this wonderful organisation as it faces an ambitious agenda driving regulatory alignment and supervisory convergence, acting as a direct supervisor, and dealing with new challenges and opportunities in the European capital markets.”

“Working closely with the members of the Board of Supervisors and the team of committed colleagues, I am ready to build upon the successes of the past and to ensure that ESMA fulfils its mission of protecting European investors and safeguarding stable and orderly financial markets.”

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Anneli Tuominen, who has done a fantastic job in leading ESMA as its interim Chair for the past seven months. Her untiring commitment has allowed ESMA to continue delivering on its mandate during this transitory phase.”

Ms Ross took over her role on 1 November 2021 for a period of five years. This term may be extended once.

Curriculum Vitae

Verena Ross, a German national, holds a degree in Chinese studies and economics and a Master’s degree in economics. Before taking on the position of ESMA chair, she worked as the Authority’s Executive Director for ten years. Prior to this, Ms Ross held several senior posts in the UK's Financial Services Authority.

Background

Press Release: Verena Ross appointed Chair of ESMA
ESMA Chair Vacancy Notice
ESMA is the European Union’s securities markets regulator. Its mission is to enhance investor protection and promote stable and orderly financial markets.

It achieves these objectives through four activities:
- assessing risks to investors, markets and financial stability;
- completing a single rulebook for EU financial markets;
- promoting supervisory convergence; and
- directly supervising specific financial entities.
ESMA achieves its mission within the European System of Financial Supervision (ESFS) through active cooperation with the European Banking Authority (EBA), the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA), the European Systemic Risk Board, and with national authorities with competencies in securities markets (NCAs).