Bezirksvorsteher

Bezirksvorsteher is the head of the district administration (Bezirksamt) in Vienna, Austria, governing one of the city’s 23 districts (Bezirke). The Bezirksvorsteher represents the district in dealings with the city government and residents, chairs meetings of the district council (Bezirksvertretung) and the district’s executive body, and oversees the work of the district administration.

The Bezirksvorsteher is elected by the district council from among its members. The term generally lasts for the duration of the district council (Bezirksvertretung), typically five years, with re-election possible. The office is usually held by a member of the political party or coalition that controls the district council. The title is gendered as Bezirksvorsteherin for women.

Responsibilities include overseeing the administration of the district office (Bezirksamt) and ensuring the implementation of decisions of the Bezirksvertretung and the Vienna City Council. They coordinate local services such as housing, social affairs, youth and family work, culture and leisure facilities, and local urban planning and building permits within the district, in line with city-wide regulations. The Bezirksvorsteher also represents the district in public events and mediates between residents, local associations, schools and businesses.

The office operates within Vienna’s municipal system, with tasks and funding largely defined by the city government. The position is a key point of contact for residents seeking local services and for entities within the district to communicate the city government’s policies at the local level.