The European Commission appointed Anthony Whelan as the new head of its competition directorate. Whelan currently serves as a key digital policy adviser to President Ursula von der Leyen.
The Irish official has extensive experience in technology policy and previously served as deputy director-general for state aid. He was a primary architect of landmark regulations including the Digital Markets Act.
Whelan now leads the department responsible for contentious antitrust investigations into U.S. technology giants. These cases frequently create diplomatic tension between Brussels and Washington.
The appointment comes as the EU debates the creation of "European champions." It also follows U.S. criticism of strict new rules aimed at reining in Big Tech power.