Former ORF Manager Petra Höfer Seeks Director Role Amid Harassment Claims

Petra Höfer, a former ORF manager who was dismissed after alleging mobbing and sexual harassment by her former superior, has announced her candidacy for the ORF director position. She stated her intention to "renew trust and realign structures" within the company, asserting that "abuse of power, lack of control, and party-political proximity have severely damaged trust in parts of the company." Höfer brings 25 years of experience in media and cultural management, including a leadership role in ORF's technical department and work in strategic online marketing.

Höfer is scheduled to appear at a hearing organized by the Neos party on Tuesday. This hearing aims to allow the party to publicly assess the suitability of candidates. The selection process involves a commission that will first narrow down the 77 applicants to the most suitable. These candidates will then be nominated by foundation councilors for the director election on June 11. Höfer's participation in the Neos hearing suggests she is likely to be nominated by one or more councilors, though she stated she has no direct knowledge of this.

The ORF has faced significant scrutiny regarding its corporate culture. Höfer's allegations and subsequent candidacy highlight ongoing tensions and the complex political landscape surrounding the public broadcaster's leadership.