Deputy Chief Executive Officer - Digital and Corporate Services
About the Function
The MFSA was established in 2002 by the Malta Financial Services Authority Act – Chapter 330 of the Laws of Malta. The Authority is the single regulator for the financial services sector in Malta, including credit and financial institutions, securities and investment service companies, recognised investment exchanges, insurance companies and intermediaries, pension schemes, company service providers, trustees and crypto-assets. The MFSA is also responsible for the regulation and oversight of the capital markets in Malta. The Authority’s main functions include the protection of consumers, integrity of financial markets, financial stability and the supervision of all financial services activities. The MFSA also holds an advisory role to Government in the formulation of policies on matters relating to the financial services industry. In the carrying out of its functions, the MFSA collaborates closely with local and international institutions.
The Deputy CEO (Digital and Corporate Services) will have executive responsibility for the Directorates responsible for:
- Digital Services
- Corporate Services
The Digital Directorate will be composed of the Units responsible for:
- Technology - responsible for information systems, technology operations, governance and planning. The Unit leverages cutting edge technology, industry standards and methodologies to provide reliable services to the rest of the organisation and to the financial services sector. Technology facilities are attained through research, design, planning, network and security architecture, systems infrastructure, software development, business applications and platforms, service and support, IT risk management, and information security.
- Data Management and Business Intelligence - responsible for data governance, data quality and the Authority’s overall data architecture, and operates the centralised records management office. The Unit manages the central data warehouse and BI analytics platform, providing dashboards and insights to support users across the Authority. Within this framework, it holds responsibility for the development of the Supervisory Cycle Management System.
- Artificial Intelligence - lead, coordinate, and support the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence across the Authority to enhance supervisory effectiveness, operational efficiency, and data-driven decision-making.
- Programme Management - provides a holistic programme oversight to the MFSA’s top management, aligns project priorities with the strategic objectives and articulates a project’s interdependencies to plan demand capacity.
The Corporate Services Directorate will be composed of the Units responsible for:
- Finance - manages the finances of the Authority and provides support to other functions for financial matters such as revenue collection, payments, payroll, financial control, budgetary control and management information preparation. The Unit also administers the MFSA’s financial control framework ensuring compliance with established policies and controls. Furthermore, the team is also responsible for the submission of statutorily required financial information to Parliament.
- Procurement - handles the procurement of goods and services in accordance with Public Procurement Regulations.
- Communications and Public Relations - strategically manages all internal and external channels to cultivate positive stakeholder relationships and ensure that MFSA employees, licence-holders, and the general public remain thoroughly informed. Serves as the Authority’s official brand guardian, overseeing all digital, social, and offline media platforms. The Unit is also responsible for designing and executing targeted consumer and industry education campaigns, managing media relations, and coordinating corporate events that uphold the MFSA’s regulatory reputation and public engagement.
- Workplace Services - oversees building management services, including security, cleaning, travel, hospitality, reception, and transport. The Unit ensures a safe, functional work environment for staff through regular preventive maintenance and refurbishment projects.
The description of the directorates and units falling within the remit of the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Digital and Corporate Services) is intended to provide an indication of the scope of responsibilities associated with this vacancy. The organisational remit and reporting structures may be amended from time to time at the discretion of the Chief Executive Officer following consultation with the Board of Governors.
About the Role
The MFSA is seeking a highly qualified and experienced individual to join its Executive Leadership Team as Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Digital and Corporate Services). The primary responsibility of the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, as established at law, is to assist the Chief Executive Officer in the performance of his duties and responsibilities. The Deputy Chief Executive Officer will therefore report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and the successful candidate will lead the Authority's digital transformation and corporate services agenda.
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Digital and Corporate Services) will ensure that the organisation is equipped with the technology, data, operational capabilities and corporate support required to deliver its strategic objectives.
As a member of the executive leadership team, the successful candidate will drive the modernisation and digitalisation of organisational capabilities, oversee major transformation initiatives and promote operational excellence across the Authority. The successful candidate will also represent the MFSA at the highest levels locally and internationally.
The role presents an opportunity to shape the future of the MFSA, and the regulation of financial services in Malta, by embedding technology, data and digital innovation at the heart of regulatory delivery and organisational performance.
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Digital and Corporate Services) shall be an ex officio member of the Executive Committee and the Enforcement Decisions Committee, and shall actively participate therein.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the Deputy CEO (Digital and Corporate Services) will be responsible for:
Strategic Leadership:
- Assist and support the Chief Executive Officer in the development and execution of the MFSA’s strategic objectives and priorities.
- Ensure that the objectives of the directorates falling under his/her responsibility are aligned with the overall mission and strategic direction of the MFSA.
- Provide strategic direction to the directorates within his/her remit, ensuring the effective and efficient implementation of the directorates’ overall functions and responsibilities.
- Lead the planning, implementation, and evaluation of directorate workplans, clearly communicating objectives and desired outcomes.
Operational Management:
- Lead, mentor and provide direction to all Chief Officers and Heads falling under his/her responsibility, promoting a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Work collaboratively with officials within his/her directorates to oversee day-to-day operations as needed, ensuring efficient and effective delivery of objectives.
- Oversee the directorates’ processes, systems, procedures, resources, budgets, and all other operational matters required for efficiency and effectiveness.
- Ensure coordination and collaboration across the directorates and units falling within his/her remit, as well as with other directorates across the Authority to effectively achieve shared goals and organisational priorities.
- Liaise closely with the other Deputy Chief Executive Officers to foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration.
- Lead and participate in directorate, unit and team meetings, as necessary, to ensure effective communication which supports the effective delivery of the Authority's strategic and operational objectives.
- Conduct performance appraisals and hold regular one-to-one meetings with the Chief Officers falling under his/her responsibility, providing constructive feedback and support to enhance performance and leadership capability. Regular one-to-one meetings should also be held with the key personnel within his/her directorates.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Take a proactive approach towards building strong professional relationships, with a broad range of stakeholders, including regulated entities, representative bodies, consumers, the Government, European Union and other domestic and international authorities.
- Represent the MFSA at local and international meetings, fora, working groups, workshops, conferences and other engagements related to his/her remit and as may be directed by the Chief Executive Officer.
- Communicate regulatory policies, decisions, and initiatives effectively to internal and external stakeholders.
- Undertake frequent travel, as required, in connection with the performance of his/her duties.
Governance and Compliance:
- Ensure that the directorates falling under his/her remit carry out their functions and responsibilities effectively and efficiently in accordance with the direction and vision set by the Chief Executive Officer. Goals, objectives and milestones should be clearly communicated and delivered.
- Coordinate the activities of the directorates and units falling within his/her remit to ensure a unified and coordinated approach in fulfilling the MFSA’s statutory obligations and responsibilities.
- Ensure that directorate-wide responsibilities are conducted effectively, consistent with MFSA’s strategic objectives, applicable legal and regulatory frameworks, and the Authority’s risk appetite, whilst promoting collaboration across the organisation.
- Promote and uphold the highest standards of governance, integrity and ethical conduct across the directorates for which he/she is responsible.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate risks related to the financial sector and the directorate’s operations and remit.
- Ensure that confidentiality is maintained at all times and that data is handled in accordance with the applicable legal, regulatory and internal frameworks.
Other duties:
- Provide assistance and support to the Chief Executive Officer and Board of Governors as necessary.
- Represent the MFSA in legal proceedings, be they judicial or otherwise, and in front of tribunals, boards, committees or other bodies that have the power to summon witnesses or otherwise oversee the activities of the MFSA.
- Contribute to and provide input on studies, consultations, policy initiatives and other work undertaken by European Union institutions, supranational standard setters and international organisations.
- Keep abreast of developments in financial services regulation, supervision and related areas.
- Provide training and participate in conferences and workshops organised by the Authority and external stakeholders.
- Undertake such other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Chief Executive Officer, as may be required from time to time in accordance with the operational and strategic needs of the Authority.
About You
The ideal candidate should possess the following qualifications, experience and skills:
- Qualification at MQF Level 6 or an equivalent qualification in: Law, Accountancy, Banking, Finance, Financial Services, Insurance, Economics, Business Administration, Information Technology, Engineering, Digital Transformation, Computer Science, or in a relevant field.
- A minimum of 10 years of senior-level experience in digital transformation, corporate services management and/or operational excellence, preferably in the financial services sector or related fields. A minimum of 7 years’ experience will be considered where an applicant is in possession of a pertinent degree at MQF Level 7 or an equivalent qualification in the aforesaid or in another relevant field.
- Extensive experience in leading digital transformation initiatives, including the implementation of digital strategies, technologies, and processes.
- A track record of successful leadership with evidence of strategic planning and decision-making, as well as organisational/operational management.
- Evidence of leading significant, organisation-wide change projects from concept to sign off.
- Experience in project and change management.
- Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement, relationship building, and public representation.
- Additional certifications in finance, regulatory compliance and/or leadership will be considered favourably.
Skills and Competencies:
- Strong understanding of the financial sector and markets, regulatory frameworks, and risk management principles.
- Strong understanding of emerging digital technologies, with the ability to translate such developments into strategic business value and organisational transformation.
- Ability to identify opportunities, assess risks and exercise sound judgement in relation to organisational issues.
- Ability to create and drive a culture of cohesion and teamwork across the organisation.
- A hands-on approach and ability to work long hours.
- People oriented and results driven.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Superior leadership and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to communicate verbally and in writing in both Maltese and English.
- Flexibility, adaptability, and resilience under pressure.
- Strong reasoning ability, integrity, and high ethical standards.
- An individual of good moral character.
Only eligible applicants will be considered and given the opportunity to attend for a first interview. Successful candidates will be shortlisted and will be called for a second interview.
The selected candidate will be required to undergo relevant tests, background checks, and security screening prior to being offered the position in view of the sensitive nature of this role. Such checks may be conducted on an ongoing basis thereafter.
The Authority reserves the right to obtain references on the applicant from independent sources.
