ORF Election: Decision Day at Küniglberg

The ORF foundation board faces a long day as its 35 members elect a new Director General. Nine candidates are presenting their future plans to the board before casting their votes. The process requires a justification that will be officially recorded.

Adding to the day's agenda is a potentially problematic decision regarding the structure of the ORF's second management tier. This move, intended to be finalized immediately after the Director General's election, has raised concerns among some board members. Heinz Lederer, the foundation board's chairman, has been attempting to broker a personnel package, reportedly involving an informal side agreement between the ÖVP and SPÖ parties to allocate two directorates each.

However, the proposed management structures differ significantly among the candidates. For instance, former ProSiebenSat1 executive Markus Breitenecker suggests multiple options, while ex-APA CEO Clemens Pig's concept omits a radio directorate. ORF magazine editor Lisa Totzauer intends to lead the program division herself. The question remains whether a qualified decision on such central issues can be made under the pressure of the day, or if the board's leadership has other intentions, leading to considerable discontent among some members.

The election procedure is being conducted for the first time under the EU's Media Freedom Act, necessitating some adjustments. Complaints regarding the appointment of the new Director General are anticipated. The election itself is secret, but the ballots are individually marked, a detail that has surfaced amidst discussions.