Cybersecurity leadership across European governments operates at the intersection of national security, public policy, and critical infrastructure protection. This group of female leaders reflects that reality—working across EU institutions, national governments, and international coordination bodies to shape cyber strategy, resilience, and cross-border security collaboration.
Nataliya Tkachuk — Head of Cyber and Information Security Directorate, National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine
Nataliya Tkachuk leads cyber and information security coordination within Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council. Her role focuses on aligning government-wide cyber efforts and strengthening national resilience, particularly in a high-threat environment where cybersecurity is directly tied to national defense and operational continuity.
Claudia Plattner — President, Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), Germany
Claudia Plattner serves as President of Germany’s Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), the country’s central cybersecurity authority. Previously Director General for Information Systems at the European Central Bank, she brings deep experience in large-scale digital systems, helping shape Germany’s national cybersecurity strategy and protection of critical infrastructure.
Barbara Kluge — Deputy Head, Directorate-General Cyber and Information Security, German Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community
Barbara Kluge serves in a senior leadership role within Germany’s Interior Ministry, focusing on cyber and information security policy. Her work contributes to national-level cybersecurity strategy, coordination, and international partnerships, supporting Germany’s broader approach to digital resilience and security governance.
Bella Powell — Government Chief Information Security Officer, United Kingdom
Bella Powell is Government Chief Information Security Officer for the UK, where she leads cybersecurity across central government systems. Her role involves setting standards, strengthening resilience, and coordinating cyber strategy across departments, ensuring consistent protection of government services and national digital infrastructure.
Manon Le Blanc — Deputy Head of Division, Hybrid Threats and Cyber Issues, European External Action Service
Manon Le Blanc plays a key role in EU cyber policy and hybrid threat response within the European External Action Service. Her work focuses on coordinating cyber diplomacy, security policy, and cross-border collaboration, reflecting the EU’s growing emphasis on cybersecurity as part of its foreign and security agenda.
Where policy, diplomacy, and national security intersect
Across Europe, cybersecurity leadership in government extends far beyond technical defense—it shapes policy, international cooperation, and national resilience. These leaders operate in environments where cyber risk is tied directly to sovereignty, economic stability, and public trust.
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