The ombudspersons take a neutral stance and can, as needed, advise, mediate and act as moderators in disputes. All inquiries are treated confidentially. In accordance with §⁠ ⁠99 HmbHG, the ombudsman or ombudswoman is elected by the university senate from the group of professors for a period of two years. The member of the student body is appointed for one year at a time by the General Student Committee of the HFBK student body; repeated election and appointment are permitted.

Most recently, the ombudspersons were elected in the University Senate in October 2024 and in October 2025 (stud.) in accordance with §⁠ ⁠11 Basic Regulations HFBK and appointed by the AStA