Kirsten’s path to international missions, and the security and defence field began with a keen interest in international affairs, from a very young age. "I was always interested in international work, even as a teenager," she recalls. Initially drawn to journalism in crisis zones, her experiences in short-term international election observation missions sparked a new direction. "Once I participated in some short-term international missions I was 'hooked' and decided to pursue a career in International Organisations and Missions instead." This early passion, combined with her studies in political science, media, law, and criminal investigation, laid the groundwork for a distinguished career in international and CSDP missions, with stints in the German and British Civil Service.

Kirsten recently joined EUPM Moldova, in November 2024, after more than 6 years in Ukraine. In her current role as Deputy Head of Mission and Chief of Staff, Kirsten keeps the internal motor of EUPM Moldova running and builds up relationships with external partners, contributing to the success of the Mission overall. "My work is both inward and outward-facing. I have an internal coordination role, keeping a general overview of the daily work in the mission. I also liaise with external partners and deputize for the Head of Mission in his absence”, she explains.

Reflecting on her time working in the EU Advisory Mission Ukraine, following Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion, Kirsten describes it as a "humbling and important experience." She highlights the rapid shift in project focus to address urgent needs caused by the war, including a project on psycho-social support, which she coordinated together with her amazing team. "We all did our best to channel our projects quickly and effectively into new areas, where support was required. I personally developed a lot during this time, as a leader, colleague, and friend."

The experience gained in Ukraine, navigating the complexities of conflict, pressing needs, and hybrid warfare, in extreme circumstances, is invaluable in Kirsten's current role in Moldova. Despite being a relatively small mission, established less than two years ago, Kirsten was surprised to discover how well-known the Mission is, and how enthusiastic the local partners are to enhance their resilience and capacities to respond to crises and hybrid threats, including foreign information manipulation and interference. “The myriad challenges Moldova has faced in the past years highlight the relevance of the Mission’s niche mandate”.

Women still have to continuously prove their value.

Kirsten's career hasn't been without its challenges. She acknowledges the persistent scrutiny women often face in the security and defence field. "Women still have to continuously prove their value; we are more scrutinized," she observes. However, she sees many positive changes happening within CSDP missions. She believes that increasing female representation in CSDP missions, especially in leadership roles, is essential.

"Having more women involved in CSDP Missions, especially in leadership positions, also creates encouragement for other women to take a similar path. Ultimately, this may lead to more gender balance and inclusion. This will be beneficial for a diverse workplace that provides equal rights and opportunities for both men and women."

Apply. If you do not get it, apply again.

Her advice to women considering a similar path is simple yet powerful: "Apply. If you do not get it, apply again. Don’t question yourself, we do that too often. And support other women, we don’t do that often enough."

For Kirsten, integrity and resilience are key. "Staying true to my own values and path helps me overcome setbacks," she says. She also credits the support of inspiring colleagues and managers, both men and women, throughout her career.

When asked about her proudest achievement, Kirsten points not to a single event but to her leadership during challenging times. "I am proud of having been responsible for a large team in Ukraine both throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, and then Russia’s unjustified and unprovoked war. As a leader and manager, I helped my colleagues to be effective and implement important activities even amidst extremely challenging circumstances."

She emphasizes the importance of consistent, responsible leadership. "I truly believe that setting a good example as a responsible leader, every single day, is one of the main aspects of having a motivated team and successful outcomes. Moreover, I think that many small successes are more important and sustainable than one big achievement.”

Kirsten's career is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability. "I have worked in often challenging environments that developed both my resilience and adaptability. I think that adaptability is an inherent part of resilience, and vice-versa."

With determination, integrity, and support, Kirsten is one of the many women that make a lasting difference in the world of CSDP missions, contributing to peace and security across the globe.