ORF announces director shortlist, ZiB host Nadja Bernhard omitted

Clemens Pig, the designated chief of Austria's public broadcaster ORF, has compiled a shortlist for 13 top director positions – nine regional directorates and four at the Küniglberg headquarters. A total of 105 candidates submitted 142 applications, and external consultants from Switzerland and Germany were engaged to ensure an impartial review.

ZiB moderator Nadja Bernhard, who applied for the regional director post in Styria, does not appear on the shortlist. Instead, ORF III managing director Kathrin Zierhut‑Kunz has been placed on the list and is being considered for the Styria position. The final nominations will be sent to the ORF foundation board, with appointments expected on 11 August.

The foundation also confirmed that the ORF licence fee will not be increased in 2027.