Peter Erlacher, the 45-year-old CEO of FH Wiener Neustadt, tragically passed away during a ski holiday with his family.

The accident occurred in the wellness area of a hotel on Turracher Höhe during the Christmas holidays.

Erlacher, a father of three, had been a key figure at the university since 2013, recently reappointed as operational CEO.

Known for his visionary leadership, he transformed the institution into a hub for innovative education and research.

Tributes poured in from political and academic leaders, highlighting his contributions to the university and the city of Wiener Neustadt.

His sudden death leaves a significant void in the academic and local community.

Provisional leadership will be handled by Axel Schneeberger and Christoph Kuen.