​01.04.2025

EEOFE Ambassadors: In Conversation with Tim Conrad

by Eyes & Ears of Europe

With the Ambassador Program of Eyes & Ears of Europe, we promote international exchange and networking within the European media and creative industries. Our ambassadors bring valuable perspectives from different countries and actively contribute to the development of our network.

In this edition, we introduce Tim Conrad, Creative Concepter at Mehappy Vienna. From training at ARD to positions at RTL and RTLZWEI, and his current role in Vienna at ATV (now part of the ProSiebenSat.1 PULS 4 Group), Tim brings extensive experience from the media landscape. As an ambassador, he aims to strengthen European networking and highlight new perspectives.

In conversation with Luise Flügge (Editorial Team, Eyes & Ears of Europe), Tim talks about his motivation to join the Ambassador Program, his goals for the European media industry, and the challenges in Austria.

Luise Flügge (Editorial Team, Eyes & Ears of Europe): Tim, what motivated you to become part of the Eyes & Ears of Europe Ambassador Program?

Tim Conrad: I have always been passionate about driving innovative ideas forward. Our industry is experiencing major disruptions—but I see this more as an opportunity. As an Eyes & Ears of Europe Ambassador, I have the chance to share my experience and knowledge while learning from a network of like-minded professionals.

LF: What do you see as your main role as an Eyes & Ears of Europe Ambassador, and how do you want to contribute to the development of the network?

TC: My main role is to connect different players in my region and promote knowledge exchange—this includes newcomers and students as well as established creatives. Our industry goes through similar processes in every market, and I find it immensely enriching to engage in dialogue and look beyond national borders within Europe.

LF: What are your goals as an ambassador, and how can the network actively support you in achieving them?

TC: My primary goal is to increase the visibility of our work and break down existing barriers. Vienna is geographically very close to Eastern Europe, yet there is hardly any connection. I want to encourage this exchange, learn about different approaches, and of course, share my own experiences. Collaborating with other European members inspires new perspectives and impulses.

LF: Which aspects of the European media and creative industries are particularly important to you, and how can networks like Eyes & Ears of Europe help strengthen them?

TC: Exchange is essential for me. Networks like Eyes & Ears can support this by fostering collaboration among members and offering well-structured training opportunities. It is crucial to constantly develop, stay ahead of trends, and integrate innovative technologies to remain relevant.

LF: What do you feel most passionate about in the industry? How do you think Eyes & Ears can further support the European creative scene?

TC: I think that in Europe, we often think too small and rarely look at our direct neighbors. For a long time, the focus was primarily on the USA, which sometimes made us too interchangeable. I believe that a stronger European exchange can highlight the unique characteristics and distinct identities of each country. Being more aware of each other can enrich us all.

LF: How does Austria’s market structure influence your work? What challenges do you see for the regional media industry?

TC: Austria has specific market structures and cultural characteristics that need to be considered. Many players strongly orient themselves towards ORF. However, with JOYN, we also have a platform that has been focused on collaborations from the beginning—something that started here even earlier than in Germany. Additionally, differentiating from Germany is always a factor in content creation. We often have the same formats, but they each receive a unique national touch. A great example is "Bauer sucht Frau" (Farmer Wants a Wife)—here, regionality is deliberately emphasized to set it apart from the German version.

LF: Thank you for the insightful conversation, Tim. We are thrilled to have you as an EEOFE Ambassador!