VELICHE Chocolate Exposure program in Belgium

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I attended this exposure program with many other Pastry Chefs from Malta.  The experience was just amazing!

It was a 3 day exposure program whereby all participants were given a tour around the chocolate factory and we were given a lot of information with regards to the product itself, the chocolate grain, the supply and the process towards making the chocolate itself.  Veliche have 12 types of chocolates all with their unique style.  Needless to say, we were waiting for the opportunity to tickle our taste buds of course and the moment actually arrived! We all love chocolate but THIS was the ultimate experience.

Their Executive Pastry Chef delivered a lot of demonstrations regarding the variety of chocolate cakes and we also had the opportunity to work in small groups and experience the same type of cakes with their products.  Every group had a specific task with different types of chocolate and we had to deliver the final product to the Executive Pastry Chef.  The pressure was on!  We found our team members and engaged towards this challenge.  This involved lots of team work, discussion, creativity, sharing of ideas and product knowledge and needles to say the adrenaline rush that we as Pastry Chefs are presenting a final product to the Executive Pastry of of Veliche Company was on another level. 

We were given lectures related to the different type of Chocolate techniques for garnishes of which I will proudly display and deliver at AX Sliema. At the end of our stay, we were treated to a luxurious restaurant which complimented the experience especially when it came to the dessert! 

I must say this was an amazing opportunity, not only to experience such an exposure in Belgium but to also network with Maltese Pastry Chefs also and gain more knowledge which will surely help me become more successful in my line of duty. 

 

I am very grateful towards Executive Chef Joseph Xuereb and the Sliema Management for allowing me this opportunity.  An unforgettable experience indeed!

International Chefs Day 2023

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On International Chefs Day, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on the culinary talent within AX Group. Our professional chefs are the heartbeat of our kitchens, infusing passion and creativity into every dish they create. On this day we recognise the dedication and artistry of these talented individuals. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the chefs who bring flavour and innovation to our dining experiences, each with their unique story and style. Join us as we celebrate the unsung heroes behind our delicious meals and gain a glimpse into their culinary world.

 

 

Chef Victor Borg – AX Hotels Valletta

Chef Victor Borg embarked on his culinary journey at the age of 15 in Malta and included prestigious stints in Switzerland and London, culminating in the opening of his own renowned restaurant ‘Mange Tout’ before joining Rosselli – AX Privilege. Inspired by the ’80s tourism boom in Malta, Chef Borg’s dedication and resolve led to a fulfilling culinary career. Chef Borg finds it rewarding to see the joy on customers’ faces and in witnessing his student’s progress and growth. With a philosophy rooted in ingredient-driven, seasonal cooking, Chef Borg has created signature dishes like Lasagne ‘Nera’ and White Chocolate Cheesecake. For him, when designing menus, seasonality, ingredient research, diverse choices, and complex flavour layers are paramount factors. His advice to the next generation underlines responsibility, continuous improvement, and enthusiasm for the craft.

For the full story, click here.

 

 

 

 

Chef Steven Pisani – AX Care

Chef Steven Pisani’s culinary journey began with formal education, progressing from Food Preparation and Production certification to a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts. His studies at I.T.S. and the Paul Bocuse Institute in France opened doors to opportunities in various hotels and restaurants in Malta and abroad, including the prestigious Michelin-starred “Lympstone Manor.” Inspired by his mother’s home-cooked meals from a young age, Chef Pisani considers customer feedback as the source to achieve work satisfaction. His cooking philosophy emphasises the art of creating multisensory meals, transforming simple ingredients into surprising dishes. His signature dish, chicken liver parfait with cider jelly, reflects his attention to precise timing and detail. In the process of designing a menu, his focus is on finding his market niche using local, seasonal ingredients. Chef Pisani’s advice for aspiring chefs is to cultivate their passion and aim high.

 

Read more.

 

 

 

 

Chef Joe Xuereb – AX Hotels Sliema

Chef Joe Xuereb’s culinary journey began during his childhood at home, assisting family members at baking sessions and learning along the way. Inspired by baking and early experimentation, he pursued culinary education and interned at the Jersey Channel Islands. He further perfected his skills by working alongside renowned chefs in London and returned to Malta to become an Executive Chef. Joining AX The Palace in 2007, he played a vital role in establishing a new 5-star hotel, heading an Asian restaurant. By cooking with simplicity, he allows natural flavours to really shine through his dishes. When designing a menu he considers various important factors ranging from special requests, seasonality to culture and more. His advice for aspiring chefs is to pursue their culinary dreams with passion and resilience.

 

For his full story, read here.

 

 

 

Chef Paul Borg – AX Hotels Qawra

Chef Paul Borg’s culinary journey began as a kitchen helper 35 years ago during a summer job, leading to his passion for cooking. He pursued formal culinary education and spent the last two decades leading kitchen teams in various hotels and resorts. His inspiration came from combining passion and creativity. Chef Borg finds daily satisfaction in achieving culinary goals with his team’s support. His cooking philosophy revolves around passion and seasonal ingredients, letting the food inspire the dishes. When designing menus, he considers guest demographics, seasonality, and budget. Summer is his preferred cooking season, and outside the kitchen, he enjoys gardening and caring for his pets. His advice to future chefs: master the fundamentals, stay open to culinary trends, trust your own taste, and be prepared for the demanding yet rewarding culinary journey.

 

For the full story, click here.

 

 

 

 

We are truly privileged to hold such talent within our culinary team that takes our valued customers’ and residents’ dining experience to new heights. The delivery of exquisite dining experiences is made possible by the enthusiasm, creativity and perseverance our chefs bring to the table. But we must not forget the talented teams that stand beside them every day – the sous chefs, kitchen staff, and front-of-house teams. Without their team’s steadfast support, our chefs’ gastronomic visions would remain unfulfilled. We extend our appreciation to all who help make our dining experiences possible, from the talented chefs to the dedicated teams behind them. Together, we continue to create signature dishes and memorable dining moments for our guests and residents.

 

 

AX Hotels Sliema FO Agents take on The Silent City

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On September 16th, we had a chance to explore and learn more about Mdina. Despite living in Malta for a while and having previously visited this popular tourist spot, I was excited to gain deeper insights to better inform our guests.

We gathered at Mdina Gate to start our journey through this ancient city surrounded by imposing walls. Known as “The Silent City” and once the capital of Malta before Valletta took over, Mdina has a unique history.

Even though I had visited many times, I couldn’t help but appreciate the stunning views that continue to attract tourists and even served as a backdrop for productions like “Game of Thrones.” Our guide shared stories about St. Paul’s Cathedral, the famous well, the Roman Villa, and various statues commemorating saints and St. Paul. What fascinated me the most were the noble houses with their distinctive red windows, courtyards, and historic wells. The panoramic views of the nearby cities were truly breathtaking and serene.

We also embraced tradition by visiting the renowned pastizzi shop in Rabat, The Serkin, to savour this Maltese treat.

I’d like to thank the management of AX The Palace and the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) for this opportunity. Apart from making new friends, we received valuable information that will help us better serve our guests and, hopefully, exceed their expectations, which is our top priority.

Tourists for the Day: Enhancing Guest Experiences

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They say the more you grow, the more you learn. This familiar saying holds true for our front office shift leader at AX Hotels Sliema, Kerr Floyd Subere and his team members. They recently had the opportunity to participate in the MTA cultural tour, and in the upcoming read, we’ll get a glimpse of Kerr’s reflections and takeaways from this intriguing experience.

Here’s what Kerr Floyd had to say:

“The MTA cultural tour proved to be an informative and enjoyable experience for our team. We received a wealth of insights into the history of the three cities and going beyond their architecture to understand their importance in Malta’s history.

Our tour guide made the learning process engaging and fun, and we had the opportunity to meet and connect with new people, allowing us to expand our professional network and form friendships along the way.

 

One aspect of the tour that particularly stood out was the insight it offered into the various modes of travel in Malta. The ferry, in particular, emerged as an excellent option for exploring the island. This is something we’ll certainly recommend to our hotel guests, especially those interested in learning more about the island’s heritage and resilience.

I want to extend my recommendation for this cultural tour to all my colleagues at AX. It not only enhances our ability to provide a better service but also allows us to go above and beyond in offering guests a richer understanding of Malta’s culture.”

As our employees continue to learn, we enhance the experiences we provide to our guests who visit our beautiful island and stay at our hotels.

 

Internship Journey: Nurturing Growth & Learning at AX Hotels Sliema

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Melissa Ventimiglia, a former Front Office intern at AX The Victoria Hotel, expressed sincere gratitude for the opportunity to complete her internship. In her reflections, she shared the enriching experiences and valuable lessons gained during her time there.

 

“Malta is a beautiful, welcoming, multiethnic and dynamic island, in which is not possible to be bored. Valletta, Rabat and Mdina are full of History in their small streets; Sliema, St. Julians and Paceville with all the shops, pubs and restaurants that make Malta a place of pleasure and fun. Blue Lagoon, Blue Grotto, Golden Bay, and Mellieha Beach give a wide range of choices of beautiful sea views!

When I arrived at the AX The Victoria Hotel I did not know what was waiting for me but a few days later I already knew I was in the right place with the right people. The workplace atmosphere was extremely positive and inclusive. Since the first day, my colleagues warmly welcomed and accompanied me on my training path. Day by day they taught and showed me the procedures and organization to follow to do my job to the best of my ability, encouraging and inspiring me to bring out the best in me. Thanks to them, I was able to improve my skills and acquire new ones. This experience was formative both from a professional and personal point of view. One of the things that impressed me and that I will always remember is the unity and strength that my team has. Despite having different cultures and ages, they are united and solid as a family.

Over the past three months, my colleagues have transformed into genuine friends with whom I can share significant moments with. AX Hotels is undoubtedly the perfect company to undertake your internship with. I will cherish this experience for both personal and professional reasons, for years to come.”

 

To Melissa, we extend our best wishes and hopes for a bright and fulfilling professional journey ahead.

Meet our Interns at the AX Business Centre!

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In today’s ever-changing business environment, the role of interns has evolved significantly. This transformation is particularly noticeable at the AX Group Business Centre, where interns are not just participants in day-to-day operations but active contributors to innovation, growth, and success. Meet our interns below!

 

Shaun Aquilina

I am Shaun Aquilina, a 16-year-old student currently working as an intern with AX Group, part of the IT team at Head Office. In my role, I provide assistance to my colleagues within the IT department, both with hardware and software tasks. This includes maintaining inventories such as the storage room and printer data. I recently completed my secondary education at Maria Regina, where I studied Computing for three years. I aspire to pursue my passion for video game development by furthering my studies in Computing at an Advanced Level at Giovanni Curmi Higher.

 

 

Monica Teuma

I am Monica Teuma, a 22-year-old student, currently undergoing a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Enterprise at MCAST. Presently, I am fulfilling an internship role in the marketing department at AX Group. Within AX Group, I am primarily responsible for providing support to the marketing team in various tasks and projects.

My role involves assisting in the organisation of marketing photography and assets, contributing to marketing campaigns, conducting market research, assisting with content creation, and staying updated on industry trends. Upon completing my degree, my intention is to pursue a master’s degree in marketing, with the aim of further advancing my career and personal growth.

 

 

Joan Petit

My name is Joan Petit, and I am from Barcelona, Spain. I worked with AX Group, undertaking an Erasmus program during June and July. The main objective of my internship is to digitalize the company’s documents, making it more efficient to search for them using the program Therefore. Additionally, I provide support to my colleagues beyond this project, assisting them with any reported issues.

I am currently pursuing an IT degree at STUCOM Centre in Barcelona, which is a two-year program. Upon my return to Spain, I will start the second year of my studies. As I look ahead to my future, I intend to continue studying subjects related to computers, such as programming, networks, and databases, which are my primary areas of interest.

 

 

We believe in the potential of every intern who has been part of our team, and we are confident that they will go on to achieve remarkable success in their future careers. To our interns, we extend our best wishes and hopes for a bright and fulfilling professional journey ahead.

Can a CEO’s personal brand pose a threat to a business?

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MaltaCEOs.mt speaks to Employer Branding & Employee Communications Strategist Vanessa Camenzuli, and various business leaders about a personal brand’s impact on a business. Read the article here.

The article discusses the importance of personal branding for CEOs and business leaders. Personal branding is based on how others perceive an individual’s actions and behaviours over time. CEOs’ personal brands can positively or negatively impact their companies, depending on whether they align with the company’s values. Successful CEOs often develop their personal brands, which can complement the company’s image. However, if a CEO’s personal brand overshadows the company’s brand, it may pose risks. Striking a balance between personal and company branding is crucial for a successful CEO.

Mr. Michael Warrington, the CEO of AX Group, shares his insights on the topic of personal branding for CEOs.

Effective and Efficient Communication: The Key to Successful Project Management

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As a business transformation manager, the primary objective is to facilitate the transformation of systems and processes in alignment with the organization’s strategic goals and objectives.

This position necessitates close collaboration with various stakeholders, including business leaders, IT teams, and external vendors, to drive and implement changes that enhance operational efficiency, increase productivity, and improve the overall performance of the IT function.

“Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with numerous individuals, and my involvement in a major IT project within AX Group p.l.c. has allowed me to work closely with diverse people across all sectors and departments. I have come to realize that every person is unique, possessing distinct personalities, characters, moods, experiences, and emotions. Recognizing and appreciating these differences is crucial for establishing effective communication. As a project leader, the ability to tailor communication to each individual is valuable. Personalized communication holds great importance and significantly influences both daily work and the overall success of a project.

Understanding Uniqueness

Effective communication begins with acknowledging and understanding that each person has their own unique set of preferences and communication styles. Some individuals may thrive on face-to-face interactions, appreciating personal connections and gestures like a friendly pat on the shoulder. Others may prefer a more formal approach, desiring direct and concise conversations that lead to quick decisions. There are also those who enjoy engaging in lengthy discussions, requiring a high level of attention, while others may respond better to a briefer communication style. We encounter these diverse communication needs daily, whether interacting with loved ones or engaging in formal work-related conversations. Recognizing these differences allows us to adapt our communication methods to convey messages in the most efficient and effective manner.

 

The Power of Personalized Communication

Personalized communication holds tremendous power. By tailoring our approach to suit individual preferences, we establish rapport, build trust, and create a positive work environment. When team members feel understood and respected, they are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and productive. Personalized communication also helps mitigate misunderstandings, enhances clarity, and reduces conflicts that may arise due to miscommunication. By catering to the unique needs of individuals, we foster stronger relationships and encourage open and honest dialogue. This leads to improved collaboration, problem-solving, and decision-making, ultimately benefiting the project as a whole.

 

Benefits for Day-to-Day Work

Effective communication greatly facilitates the day-to-day responsibilities. It enables seamless information sharing, ensuring that all team members are well-informed and aligned with project goals, timelines, and expectations. Clear and personalized communication minimizes the chances of errors, delays, and rework. It also promotes efficient task delegation, allowing to assign responsibilities based on team members’ strengths and preferences, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. Moreover, effective communication helps address challenges and obstacles promptly, keeping projects on track and avoiding potential bottlenecks.

 

Enhancing Project Success

The impact of effective communication extends beyond daily operations. It plays a crucial role in the overall success of a project. When project leaders establish a culture of open communication, team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas, concerns, and suggestions. This fosters innovation, creativity, and continuous improvement, driving the project forward. Effective communication also aids in stakeholder management by ensuring clear and consistent messaging to all stakeholders. When stakeholders feel well-informed and involved, they are more likely to support the project and provide necessary resources and assistance.

 

Navigating the Challenges of Multicultural Communication in the Hotel Industry

The diverse workforce and international service providers make effective communication a crucial aspect of successful project management. While these challenges may seem daunting, they can be embraced as opportunities for growth and improvement. By recognizing and harnessing the potential of multicultural individuals in an IT project, project leaders can tap into a rich resource of knowledge, creativity, and collaboration. This not only improves project outcomes but also cultivates an inclusive and dynamic work environment that celebrates diversity and fosters continuous growth and innovation.

 

The ability to adapt our communication style to different preferences enables us to navigate day-to-day work smoothly and contributes to the overall success of the project. Embracing effective communication practices not only benefits us as project leaders but also creates an environment conducive to growth, innovation, and achievement.

Reflections on a Career in Hospitality

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After dedicating 22 years of service to AX Hotels, Charles Portelli bids a fond farewell to his career in hospitality, as he embarks on a well-deserved retirement journey. As Front Office Manager, Charles has become a familiar, friendly face to countless guests, many of whom returned to AX The Victoria to specifically for him.

 

Here, Charles reflects on his journey, shares insights gained from years of service, and offers words of wisdom to aspiring professionals looking to make their mark in the industry.

 

Could you share your personal journey with AX The Victoria?

My journey with AX The Victoria has been a beautiful chapter in my life, one that is now coming to a close after more than two decades. It all started when my sister-in-law introduced me to the hotel, and I must admit, I was initially hesitant about applying for the position as I already had a stable job in a nearby hotel. But the warmth and hospitality that greeted me, coupled with the refined and tasteful ambiance of the hotel, convinced me to take the leap of faith. And now, looking back, I can say with certainty that it was one of the best decisions I ever made.

Working here has been a joyous experience. Yes, there were challenges along the way, but what made it truly special was the opportunity to connect with so many people who became more than mere guests. They were dear friends, some of whom came back to visit year after year. And over the years, I had the privilege to get to know them, see their families grow and flourish, and become a part of their Malta experience. Equally wonderful were the colleagues and management that I had the pleasure of working with. They were not just co-workers but became genuine friends to me. The memories I’ve gathered over the years will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to learn, grow, and share experiences with such incredible individuals.

 

What are your reflections on a career dedicated to hospitality?

I began my career in the hospitality industry 43 years ago. It was a simpler time back then, when the hospitality industry was so much different from what it is now. I still remember my early years in the industry, when technology was not as advanced as it is today. We had to do everything manually, without the assistance of computers. I recall the days when we had to rely on a telephone operator to place overseas calls and wait for their call back to know the cost of the call. Room reservations used to come through faxes, and we used a board with different colours to identify the specific travel agent placing the booking. Looking back, it’s amazing how much the industry has evolved since then.

The old-world charm of those years holds a special place in my heart. However, what has always been constant throughout my career is the importance of our guests. They are the lifeblood of the hospitality industry, and without them, all our efforts would be for nothing. The pandemic has really highlighted this fact, reminding us of how much we rely on them. As I look back on my career, I’m grateful to have been part of an industry that strives to provide excellent service to our guests, and I’m honoured to have played my part.

 

How do you feel now that you are approaching retirement?

I must admit that the reality of retirement is only now finally sinking in. It will be a significant change for sure, but I have been preparing for it for some time now. I’m excited to have more quality time to spend with my family and to explore various interests and pastimes in earnest.

So, as I bid farewell to my working life, I’m proud of the contributions I’ve made and grateful for the memories and experiences that I’ve gained.

 

As you transition to the next chapter of your life, what aspects of your career do you believe will remain with you?

I’ll definitely be taking with me many memories and values, which have become an inseparable part of my personality. Although I won’t be directly involved in the industry anymore, I know that tourists will still be around, and I may come across instances where I can offer friendly recommendations or directions to visitors to our shores to enhance their experience of my beloved Malta. Additionally, the friendships and connections that I’ve made over the years with guests and colleagues have enriched my life in countless ways and those memories will remain with me forever.

 

What advice would you offer to aspiring professionals entering the hospitality industry, particularly those who are interested in working with AX Hotels?

I believe the best piece of advice I can give any hospitality hopeful is that this industry requires dedication, hard work, and a true passion for providing excellent service to guests. You may be required to work long hours, weekends, and even public holidays. But trust me, the rewards are immeasurable. You’ll get to meet people from all walks of life, immerse yourself in different cultures, and offer guests an experience they’ll never forget.

 

AX The Victoria has been like my second home to me for more than half of my professional career. I believe this says a lot about how much I came to treasure my time with AX Hotels. So, if you’re willing to be part of the AX Hotels mission statement, that of making a difference in the hospitality industry, providing guests with an unforgettable experience through quality service, then you’ll be properly equipped to thrive in your career and enjoy fantastic moments with a talented and dedicated team. All that is left for me to say is, take the plunge, immerse yourself in hospitality the industry, provide fantastic service to guests, and you’ll have a career you’ll be truly proud of.

 

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Are you ready to embark on an exciting career in the hospitality industry and join the team at AX The Victoria? Don’t miss the opportunity to apply for the post of Front Office Manager. While Charles’ departure will undoubtedly leave big shoes to fill, we can’t wait to hear from passionate and talented individuals who are committed to delivering exceptional service to our guests. Apply now and take the first step towards a rewarding career in hospitality with AX Hotels.

 

Front Office Interns at AX Sliema

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All the way from the Netherlands, allow us to introduce Dionne Paiesz, Demi Van de Spek, and Nicole Ton Van.

Our journey began earlier this year, and during that time, we had the opportunity to get to know each other and we were grateful that we came from the same country, as adjusting to living independently in a foreign land was initially intimidating. However, Malta’s small size made the transition easier, and we quickly settled in. One intriguing aspect was how everyone seems to know each other here!

We were greeted by HR and were given an induction and show around of the property then introduced to our Managers and team members.  We had a warm welcome from everyone and we were really happy with the team.  We knew that working in a 5 Star and 4 Star Property will be challenging for us but we were readily prepared for it. While we had learned about hospitality in school, actually experiencing it was very different. During our first weeks, we received a lot of training about the standards, information about guests and clientele, and what is expected from the team. Then training on the hotel system began. Initially, it was quite overwhelming as there was a lot to learn, but with time, it became easier and, of course, more enjoyable.

Front Office is a lovely department to work in and it taught us to be alert and always look our best. Shifts initially started as 8 hours per day, and once we were fully trained, we moved to 12-hour shifts. This made our weekly schedule easier to plan.

The Sliema AX Hotels are beautiful. AX The Victoria has a different decor from AX The Palace, but both hotels have detailed aesthetics and excellent facilities. Working with guests gave us a lot of job satisfaction, and seeing clients depend on us to make their holiday enjoyable and relaxing motivated us to deliver and exceed expectations.

 

What will you be taking back home with you? 

Our experience with AX Sliema is indescribable. Thanks to the team, we have gained valuable experience and, most importantly, a lot of knowledge and insights into hospitality. We have been exposed to mystery guests, different types of guests, how to handle challenging situations, and the importance of exceeding expectations. We will surely take all of these lessons back home with us.

 

Would you choose AX Hotels Sliema again?

Definitely! This was one of the best decisions we have made.

We would like to thank both Front Office teams for their patience in training us and for making us feel part of the team and most of all we would like to thank Dorianne Camilleri – Front Office Manager at AX Hotels Sliema and Charles Portelli – Front Office Manager at The Victoria.

 

AX Hotels Sliema…we will miss you!