FHV awarded the “Family & Career” state prize

Key Takeaways

• FHV wins the “Family & Career” State Award.
• Family-friendliness is a key factor in FHV’s success.
• The award recognizes the commitment of all employees.  

FHV Executive Director Stefan Fitz-Rankl expressed his pride in receiving the state award. “This award recognizes our wide range of initiatives aimed at balancing family and career. For us, family-friendliness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s something we put into practice every day at the university. This award is thanks to the dedication and, above all, the flexibility of all FHV employees. Without this attitude, it would not be possible to reconcile the diverse needs of our employees with the demands of a successful university operation and to jointly create a work culture in which work and family can be balanced as effectively as possible.”  

A Wide Range of Measures

The FHV offers flexible work hours in terms of both time and location, a parents’ workroom, a nursing room, and a quota of childcare spots. The university also provides structured parental leave management, extended leave for caring for family members, and a networking breakfast for parents with family members who require care. The commitment to balancing work and family obligations is ongoing: The FHV has already been awarded the state’s “Family-Friendly Workplace” distinction six times.    

An Important Competitive Advantage

Bernd Längle, Head of HR Services at the FHV, emphasizes: “For us, it’s not just about work-life balance in the traditional sense, but about creating a modern work environment where people feel seen as whole individuals. We want to create conditions in which personal challenges are met with understanding and support, and where this trust is reflected in commitment, responsibility, and a strong sense of community. Being recognized for this encourages us to continue down this path consistently.” Martina Falch, herself a mother of three and an HR generalist at the FHV, agrees: “Family-friendliness is a living reality at the FHV. The culture of appreciation, the trust, and the flexibility in our day-to-day work make all the difference to me. I really appreciate that, and I’m delighted to be part of this wonderful team and this university.” As of November 2025, 379 people (279 full-time equivalents) work at the FHV in teaching, research, and university services. 55% of them are women.  

Companies for Families

Eighteen companies and institutions from across Austria were honored in five categories. The State Prize is awarded every two years and builds on the regional competitions held in the federal states. The top three companies from each federal state were eligible to submit their projects at the national level. All award-winning and participating organizations are part of the “Businesses for Families” network and actively contribute to the further development of family-friendly working conditions.

More information about the State Prize is available here.