The European Commission has deferred the selection process for the head of the AI Office until the formal adoption of the AI Act, anticipated in May. In the interim, policy units A1 and A2 in DG CONNECT are assuming the responsibilities of the AI Office, ensuring continuity in overseeing AI-related tasks within the Commission.
Office Establishment and Recruitment Initiatives
Established last month, the AI Office is gearing up to commence operations in the near future. Recruitment efforts for both technical and policy roles have already commenced, with a deadline for applications set for March 27. Prospective employees can expect to join the office tentatively by autumn, as indicated in the job advertisement.
Scope and Functionality of the Office
Functioning as an internal department within the Commission, the AI Office will play a pivotal role in supervising regulations governing general-purpose AI systems. Additionally, it will serve as a central coordination hub for AI policy matters at the EU level, fostering collaboration with various stakeholders including Commission departments, EU agencies, companies, and Member States.
Selection Process and Potential Candidates
Management positions within the AI Office will be filled through standard Commission procedures, ensuring a transparent and merit-based selection process. Speculation surrounds potential contenders for the head position, with Dragos Tudorache and Lucilla Sioli emerging as notable figures in discussions regarding leadership of the office.
Implications of the AI Act Approval
While the AI Act garnered overwhelming support in Parliament earlier this month, its formal endorsement by the 27 EU governments, slated for May, remains pending. The legislation categorizes AI systems based on their potential societal risks, with stringent regulations applicable to high-risk systems prior to market entry. Implementation timelines stipulate phased enforcement, with specific provisions coming into effect at different intervals following the law’s entry into force.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Tech Crunch
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