At Spinverse, our Innovation Project Services (IPS) team plays a key role in supporting EU-funded consortium projects. To shed light on this essential service, we spoke with Malin Tverin, one of our experienced project managers, about her role, responsibilities and the value she brings to customers navigating complex EU projects.
From academia to Project Management
Malin joined Spinverse over four years ago, initially working with health technology proposals before transitioning to the IPS team two years ago. Before joining Spinverse, Malin built an impressive academic background, earning a Ph.D. in physiological biochemistry with a specialisation in lipidomics and biomarkers for nutrition. This analytical and problem-solving mindset has proven invaluable in her current role.
Navigating the complexities of EU projects
Malin’s primary focus is on supporting project coordinators and consortiums with the administrative and organisational tasks required to implement their project plans. While these may seem like routine responsibilities, they are anything but simple.
"We help set up the project structure, organise regular meetings, and ensure compliance with EU rules and regulations," Malin explains. "This includes managing twice-yearly technical and financial reporting, organising Consortium meetings, providing training and offering day-to-day support. This is especially valuable for first-time beneficiaries who can find the process overwhelming."
With consortiums often involving 30 to 50 partners, communication is a key challenge. "My mailing list for one project can have over 250 names," Malin shares. "Keeping everyone aligned and informed is critical to the success of these projects."
Tackling challenges and managing change
No two weeks are the same for Malin, as EU projects often evolve over their three-year lifespans. "Organisations change strategies, partners come and go, and project plans need to be amended. Managing these changes and documenting every detail is a significant part of the job," she says.
In addition to managing changes, Malin ensures that all major meetings – including annual reviews with the EU and external evaluators – are well-prepared. "These reviews determine the continuation of project funding, so getting them right is crucial. We guide our customers through the preparation process, ensuring they are set up for success."
Why Coordinators trust Spinverse
The complexity of EU projects can be daunting, even for seasoned coordinators. "For first-timers, the EU’s bureaucracy and changing regulations can be extremely challenging. Coordinators often reach out with questions, and when we provide clear answers quickly, you can actually feel their relief," Malin notes.
Experienced coordinators also value Spinverse’s support. "Many coordinators are senior professionals such as CEOs, professors or other leaders who simply don’t have the time to manage the administrative burden of an EU project. By handling these tasks, we allow them to focus on the technical implementation and leadership their roles demand." In fact, by supporting the coordinator in day-to-day tasks, Malin sees herself serving the whole consortium. More often than not, many partners are first-timers in joining an EU project and appreciate the help provided by Malin and her colleagues.
A collaborative and rewarding role
Despite the challenges, Malin finds her role deeply rewarding. "I enjoy problem-solving and the variety that comes with managing long-term projects. Each challenge teaches us something new, and it’s fulfilling to see how our work helps customers achieve their goals," she says.
She also values the relationships built over the years. "In these multi-year projects, you get to know the customers and even form friendships. This familiarity makes collaboration more seamless and enjoyable. It’s also rewarding to see organisations grow and return to us for new projects."
Malin also notes that in her work as Project Manager, there is no way she could manage the two consortium projects, UNLOOC and Newlife, all by herself. She is supported by her colleagues who take care of details related to the financials or reporting of the consortium project, which further demonstrates that the successful coordination of an EU project is no easy feat.
Why Spinverse?
When we asked Malin why she would recommend Spinverse’s services to project coordinators, Malin is clear: "It’s a lot of work, and it’s overwhelming. Coordinators often don’t have the time or expertise to handle the administrative complexities of EU projects. We act as their right hand, enabling them to focus on what they do best while ensuring the project runs smoothly."
At Spinverse, we understand that navigating the complexities of EU-funded projects requires expertise, dedication and a proactive approach. With professionals such as Malin on our team, we’re committed to ensuring our customers succeed in implementing their ambitious innovations. If you’re looking for support in managing your next EU project, we’re here to help.
John Sperryn, Director and Team Leader for Innovation Project Services
john.sperryn@spinverse.com
+358 45 314 8404