Antitrust Alert: EU Appoints New Chief Competition Economist

The European Commission antitrust authority, DG Competition, has designated a new Chief Economist. Professor Kai-Uwe Kühn will take office in January 2011, succeeding Professor Damien Neven.

Established only seven years ago, the role of Chief Economist has rapidly come to serve as an integral check and balance on the quality of DG Competition decisions. The Chief Economist gives economic guidance and methodological assistance to case handlers, and his team joins case teams where needed. The Chief Economist can also provide independent economic advice to the Commissioner on any matter.

While the Chief Economist's opinions are never made public, his influence on the process is important. Economic analysis is increasingly part of enforcement of the antitrust and merger rules, as well as judicial review of Commission decisions. Professor Kai-Uwe Kühn has significant academic and consulting experience and has worked on both sides of the Atlantic. This may facilitate