EDPB Elects Zdravko Vukić as Deputy Chair
The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has appointed Zdravko Vukić as the new Deputy Chair, succeeding Aleid Wolfsen. Vukić, serving as the Director of the Croatian Personal Data Protection Agency, will collaborate closely with EDPB Chair Anu Talus and Deputy Chair Irene Loizidou Nikolaidou to uphold the consistent implementation of EU data protection regulations.
In his new role, Vukić aims to promote enforcement cooperation among data protection authorities and enhance awareness of GDPR compliance at both national and EU levels. He emphasizes the significance of empowering individuals to exercise their data protection rights and assisting businesses, including small enterprises, in understanding their obligations under EU data protection laws.
Under the leadership of EDPB Chair Anu Talus, the Board expresses gratitude to outgoing Deputy Chair Aleid Wolfsen for his dedication and contributions. The EDPB looks forward to working with Deputy Chair Vukić to manage the growing responsibilities of the Board effectively. Additionally, the EDPB has decided to engage in public consultations following the initial drafting of guidelines, as well as consider stakeholder input before formulating guidelines on a case-by-case basis. This proactive approach allows the EDPB to incorporate feedback, questions, and practical examples from stakeholders during the guideline development process.
Zdravko Vukić’s professional background includes a tenure as Chief Human Resources Officer and Data Protection Officer before assuming his current role as Director of the Croatian Personal Data Protection Agency. As a guest lecturer on personal data protection and a member of the National Cybersecurity Council, Vukić brings a wealth of experience to his new position as EDPB Deputy Chair. His involvement in various EU initiatives and projects demonstrates his commitment to advancing data protection practices and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in complying with GDPR regulations. In his term ending in 2029, Deputy Chair Vukić pledges to prioritize the adequate staffing of Data Protection Authorities and the EDPB Secretariat to effectively address emerging data protection challenges.
The election procedure for the Chair and Deputy Chairs of the EDPB follows Article 73 of the GDPR, with office terms lasting five years and renewable once. The collaborative efforts of EDPB leadership, including Chair Anu Talus, Deputy Chair Irene Loizidou Nikolaidou, and newly-elected Deputy Chair Zdravko Vukić, aim to uphold EU data protection standards and promote cooperation among European data protection authorities. Through continued dialogue with stakeholders and proactive consultation processes, the EDPB seeks to strengthen enforcement mechanisms, raise awareness of GDPR compliance, and navigate the evolving landscape of data protection in the European Economic Area.
