Director General
The Director General of Czech Radio serves as its statutory executive authority and oversees its day-to-day management.
René Zavoral, Director General of Czech Radio
Public service media seems to be part of René´s DNA. He has dedicated most of his professional career to Czech Radio, radio-only organization in Czechia. René has experienced many different roles within Czech Radio throughout the years from Marketing to Strategic Development; he has been serving as Director General of Czech Radio since January 2016.
René had the privilege of navigating Czech Radio, the first continental radio in Europe, through its centenary. Czech Radio has made it a long way from a small scout tent where the regular broadcasting started in May 1923 to its current form and shape. Certain aspects do not change. Czech Radio traditionally pursues high standards of journalism with emphasis on complex regional coverage, investigation journalism, covering varied groups of audience and bringing content to all. His vision for Czech Radio is to remain the most trusted and independent source of information in Czechia and act as an innovative creator of audio experience for all.
Appointment and accountability
The Director General is appointed by the Council, on the basis of a selection procedure, for a six-year term. The Director General is accountable to the Council and has the right to attend its meetings.
The position is subject to strict independence criteria and governed by incompatibility rules. The Director General’s mandate may conclude in the case of expiration of their term, resignation, dismissal by the Council under specified legal conditions, or loss of eligibility.
Executive authority
Within the framework set by law and Council decisions, the Director General:
- manages the organisation and its operations;
- appoints and dismisses directors of regional stations and senior managers, in coordination with the Council where required;
- proposes the budget, strategic plans and key internal regulations;
- represents Czech Radio in legal and contractual matters.
Certain legal acts, including significant property transactions or structural changes, require prior written approval from the Council.