ÖFB turns to Ernst & Young to find a proactive sport architect
In Dublin, Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) announced a fresh search for a sport director, contrasting its usual internal appointments with a public tender that promises a proactive architect rather than a conventional manager. The process, run by Ernst & Young, sets a deadline of 23 October and seeks candidates who can drive innovation across both grassroots and elite levels.
Open tender managed by Ernst & Young
ÖFB board chairman Josef Pröll confirmed that the association has engaged the external consultancy Ernst & Young to manage the tender. Applications must be submitted by 23 October, after which a shortlist will be drawn up in November and a successor to Peter Schöttel is expected before the year ends.
"Wir wollen jemanden finden, der nicht verwaltet, sondern proaktiv gestaltet," Pröll told reporters. He added that sport expertise remains an absolute core point, but integration, management and communication skills now carry more weight than in the past.
Team coach Ralf Rangnick warned that the search resembles looking for the "eierlegende Wollmilchsau", a candidate who can combine innovation, management and communication. Pröll replied that the broad process is intended to reach individuals who may not currently be on the ÖFB’s radar.
Desired profile and selection criteria
A UEFA Pro licence is listed as desirable but not mandatory, and applicants must also submit an idea concept for the ÖFB’s future spanning the tension between mass participation and professional football. Management competence is highlighted as an advantage.
After Ernst & Young completes its confidential assessment, a five‑member panel – Josef Pröll, his deputies Johannes Wutzlhofer and Philip Thonhauser, and CEOs Thomas Hollerer and Bernhard Neuhold – will conduct hearings in a small circle. The final appointment rests with the ÖFB supervisory board.
Candidates will be invited to propose salary and contract terms, which must align with the association’s possibilities. Pröll said Peter Schöttel’s remuneration provides a benchmark, yet the ÖFB retains flexibility in the final package.
By opening the role to a wide pool and insisting on proactive, innovative thinking, the ÖFB signals a shift from traditional administration toward a strategic architect for Austrian football. The next milestone is the November shortlist, followed by a decision before the end of the calendar year.