Paul Culley

Most of Paul’s professional career is in EU affairs and institutions, related to the Council and the European Council. He has worked in a range of policy fields, including Agriculture, Internal Market, Environment, Food Safety, Trade and International Development.

From 2010 to 2016 he was a Director in the Private Office of the Council’s Secretary

General, giving policy support to the European Council, the General Affairs Council, and the Committee of Permanent Representatives I and II.

He also directed the Council’s Codecision Secretariat and built the programme to prepare and train incoming Council presidencies.

Since 2016, he has worked both as an independent political advisor and trainer. He also contributes to European Studies programmes in academic institutions in several countries, specialising in activities that bridge the gap between academic and professional life.

With CPDS, Paul has contributed to EU Council Presidency programmes for Estonia, Finland and Slovenia. He has also contributed to CPDS skills courses for the European Commission, the External Action Service and the Swiss Foreign Ministry.

Paul’s new work/life balance since 2016 means more time for staying fit through outdoor activities – biking, boating, hiking (almost enough to compensate for the increased time spent discovering new restaurants with friends).