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!

 

Conquering New Heights – Claire Mifsud’s Journey on Mount Toubkal

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Introducing Claire Mifsud, Sales Executive at AX Hotel Sliema, who fearlessly conquered new heights by reaching the summit of Mount Toubkal.

 

In 2021 – my life took a complete 360-degree turnaround – with this, came a change in career, and change in status and a change in my whole life. I met a friend who organised weekly treks around Malta – with the goal to do the Camino de Santiago as a fundraising for a charity he supports.

So, I joined this group, some people I knew – some others I get to know. I gelled with them right away and made some amazing connections. Last May – 22 – I challenged myself to get to Santiago from Sarria, which is a 111km walk – and loved every minute of it! It gave me time to think and reflect as well as enjoy the beautiful scenery – and time to get out of my head and see things from a different perspective, after that I came back and started my amazing journey with AX.

This was such a great satisfaction – that kept me looking for my next challenge – as well as our fundraising which contributed to building three schools in Bonga, Ethiopia, which will allow 500 children a year to receive an education. After this I was itching for my next personal/philanthropical challenge, as a fundraising – we thought about empowering women in Ethiopia and made plans to build an education centre which will teach women skills such as creating employment opportunities, reducing migration and uplifting poor women and increase household income of families and hence reduce poverty in the area.

Conquering Mount Toubkal, was the biggest challenge I’ve set for myself and the most gratifying and exciting. The distinctive beauty and unique scenery were already enough for the trip to be the most exhilarating – but the unique climb made it the most transcendent.

Mount Toubkal, a mountain peak that is the highest point in Morocco and in the Atlas Mountains – 4,165 metres high. The peak is situated 60 km south of Marrakech in the High Atlas (Haut Atlas). Juniper forests covering the mountain’s higher slopes are succeeded by alpine meadows, whereas the lower slopes have been extensively overgrazed.

As trekking Mount Toubkal requires your body to be at high altitudes, it is crucial to allow time for adjustment. A rule of thumb is “climb high and sleep low.” It’s important to gain height slowly, about 500m a day once you are at 2,500m. You should be drinking plenty of water as well.

We started with a good night’s rest in Imlil and then stop at one of the refuges to sleep for the night. This allowed your body to adjust gradually, as the walk from Imlil to the Toubkal Refuges is about 12km alone. After spending the night at the Refuge, we woke up very early, feeling somewhat refreshed, and began our trek up to the summit of Toubkal. we began our trek in the early hours of the morning, with a headlamp, to avoid returning too late in and it was also great to get up to the summit for sunrise!

Conquering Mount Toubkal and reaching the peak was an emotional moment, the sky was a deep blue, and the horizon was punctured by sharp, jagged forays into the sky from the deep orange and white mountains below. It was an epic scene, and to look at it you would think the most serene moment.

As we left the peak, we started making our way back down. We had conquered North Africa’s highest peak in some of the worst conditions, and we lived to tell the tale.

Once you conquer a mountain there’s very little else you cannot do, I feel very satisfied, happy and proud I did this it’s a great one for the bucket list – now onto the next challenge!

 

 

 

 

 

Scaling Up AX Hotels: The HR Perspective

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Joseanne Tanti, Human Resources Manager for AX Hotels, discusses the innovative recruitment and training strategies implemented by the HR team to prepare for the re-opening of the ODYCY hotel.

Over the past few years, AX Hotels has entered a new phase of growth and development, characterised by the development of several ambitious hotel and F&B projects, including the newly redeveloped ODYCY resort in Qawra. As a company with a strong reputation for delivering exceptional hospitality, we understand that the success of all our hospitality offerings ultimately depends on the calibre of the staff who work within them. Consequently, our HR team has been actively working on a proactive recruitment approach, utilising creative solutions to attract and onboard the right talent, despite the ongoing challenges faced by the local hospitality industry.

 

At AX Hotels, we take pride in our recruitment strategy that centres around a positive and fulfilling career journey for potential candidates from the very start. Our approach is to identify and attract candidates who share our passion for hospitality, possess the character traits required to excel in the industry, and are excited about building a long-term career with us. To overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic and the limited local talent market, we proactively sought to recruit skilled professionals from leading international locations. By conducting targeted recruitment drives, we successfully attracted a diverse range of highly talented individuals with experience across a range of hotel departments, including operational, administrative, and managerial positions.

 

Naturally, recruitment is just one part of a successful hiring strategy. We also recognise that effective onboarding is key to building a strong team. This was especially crucial in the build-up to the re-opening of ODYCY to ensure that all our new recruits gel and feel integrated into the AX Hotels family. As many of our new hires were foreign nationals only just arriving in Malta, we also felt the need to create a comprehensive onboarding program that not only introduced them to their roles but also included cultural awareness training to foster a workplace that respects diversity. By embracing diversity, we believe we can create a more inclusive and successful workplace for everyone.

 

We also believe in taking a long-term approach with each of our employees from the outset. We understand that providing a supportive work environment is essential to fostering success and productivity in the long run. To this end, we provide our staff with comprehensive training and support to help them thrive in their roles and build fulfilling careers with us. Effective staff management entails striking a balance between the company’s objectives and the individual needs of our employees, with the ultimate goal of transforming groups of new hires into successful and harmonious teams who deliver on the AX Hotels’ promise for exceptional hospitality.

 

Our open-door policy encourages our employees to approach their managers with feedback and concerns, enabling them to share their experiences and ideas to enhance the overall employee experience. By valuing our staff and listening to their needs, we strive to create a workplace culture that motivates them to perform at their best so they can build fulfilling careers with us.

 

We also feel it’s important to acknowledge the unique qualities and motivations of each individual on our teams. We understand that some employees are more driven and passionate about their work than others, while different people hold different career aspirations. To support the diverse needs of our staff, we have tailored our approach to staff management and development accordingly. Our development programs are designed to assist employees in achieving their goals by actively listening to their needs and understanding what motivates them in both their work and personal lives. This enables us to support them in the right ways and to open their eyes to the countless job opportunities available through AX Hotels, so that they can flourish and enjoy fulfilling careers.

As we look ahead to the reopening of ODYCY, we are proud of the progress our teams have made so far. We recognise that our people are the cornerstone of our business and remain committed to their growth as we move forward. By cultivating talent and promoting a culture of teamwork and creativity, we are confident that we can continue to excel and set a new standard of hospitality excellence in Malta.

A Career Evolution: Andreas Dullnigg Shares His Lifelong Journey in Hospitality

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As Andreas Dullnigg approaches his tenth year at AX Hotels, we had the pleasure of sitting down with him to explore his remarkable career journey, his deep-rooted passion for hospitality, and his unwavering commitment to providing unforgettable guest experiences. Here he delves into his insights, inspirations, and the lessons he has learned along the way, from his early days in the industry to his current role as Hotel Manager at AX Hotels Qawra.

 

How long have you been working at AX Hotels, and could you share your career progression within the company?

I started my journey with AX Hotels nine years ago as an Operations Manager, where I had the opportunity to oversee day-to-day operations and be responsible for everything from food and beverage operations and store management to security, health and safety, and purchasing. In addition to my primary roles, I also led the Hotel Animation team to help foster an enjoyable atmosphere around our hotels and ensure our guests always had a wonderful time with us.

A few years later, I was appointed Assistant General Manager, which enabled me to broaden my scope of responsibilities and gain valuable insights into overall hotel management. And now, I am proud to hold the role of Hotel Manager at AX Hotels Qawra. I am truly grateful for the rewarding career I have enjoyed so far with AX Hotels and eagerly anticipate the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

 

Could you share your academic background?

I completed a comprehensive five-year academic course at ITS, together with a two-year certificate programme in Front Office and Housekeeping, followed by three years of specialised study in Hotel Supervisory Management. As I have always wanted to progress further in my hospitality career, I also decided to embark on a Masters in Hospitality Management, which I am looking forward to completing this year. I believe that my studies and training, combined with my first-hand experience on the job, have equipped me with a solid foundation and a diverse skill set, enabling me to approach my role with a well-rounded perspective.

 

Could you share a favourite initiative that you have been involved in at AX Hotels?

One project that stands out as a major highlight for me is the opening journey of the AX ODYCY hotel in Qawra. It has been an incredible experience being part of a multi-talented team that brought this fantastic hotel to life. The process has been quite a unique challenge, requiring us to go above and beyond and embrace new learning curves, but collaborating with such a diverse group of professionals has been incredibly rewarding. It really leads you to appreciate the significant investment that AX Hotels is making in transforming Qawra into such a stellar, year-round hospitality destination.

 

What are your core responsibilities in your role?

Recently, my main focus has been on strategically planning for the highly anticipated opening of the ODYCY. I’ve been fortunate to have a fantastic operations team supporting me all the way. This project is a major milestone for AX Hotels. Not only have we extended the original hotel, but we’ve completely transformed our hospitality offering and brand, adding new restaurants, bars, and upgrading our facilities. We are offering our guests something truly unique and unforgettable in Malta. So, as you can imagine, this has meant that we’ve all needed to pull together and work tirelessly to ensure every aspect of the hotel is perfect.

 

Do you have a favourite quote that inspires you?

One quote that has always stuck with me is from Maya Angelou: “People will forget what you said, forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I find this quote particularly relevant in the hospitality industry, because as a hotel, we’re not just providing people with a place to sleep and eat, but creating an experience where families, friends, and couples can come together to create treasured moments. This quote reminds me that when we make our guests feel truly valued, appreciated, and cared for, it leaves a lasting impression that they will carry with them long after their stay.

 

What are your interests and hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy travelling, immersing myself in different cultures, supporting my favourite football team, and taking drives in my VW Beetle.

 

Can you share an interesting fact about yourself?

One interesting fact about me is that my journey in the hospitality industry began at the young age of 15, working as a pool boy in a local 5-star hotel. You can say that the hospitality bug caught me young, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

 

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

What I find most fulfilling in my role is the opportunity to make a real difference in guest satisfaction. Nothing motivates me more than ensuring our guests have an exceptional experience with us. Additionally, I take great pride in mentoring our young employees and witnessing their growth and advancement. AX Hotels has always been deeply committed to investing in and supporting our employees, and being able to contribute to their success and witness colleagues flourishing in their careers is truly rewarding.

 

Have you encountered any challenging situations in your role that have taught you valuable lessons?

As with any team and work situation, I’ve witnessed disputes between departments caused by misunderstandings or communication gaps. It taught me the importance of never taking communication for granted, actively listening to colleagues, considering everyone’s opinions and insights, and maintaining an open and ongoing dialogue within the team to ensure we’re all working collaboratively and pulling in the same direction.

 

What is your motto for delivering the best guest experience?

Every interaction with a guest matters, so make each one count.

 

What advice would you give to young individuals aspiring for a career in hospitality?

My biggest piece of advice to aspiring hospitality professionals is to recognise that this industry is not just a job, but a vocation that demands a genuine passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. Whether it’s a hotel stay or a dining experience, these moments hold immense significance for people. They eagerly look forward and save up for these cherished moments with loved ones, and it is ultimately our duty, as hospitality professionals, to deliver experiences that become treasured memories in their lives. So, if you’re serious about embarking on this journey, remember that it’s an opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives. As such, it requires passion, determination, and a willingness to go above and beyond the job description to exceed guest expectations.

Breaking down barriers: Fostering a work culture that is welcoming of foreign nationals

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It is no secret that Malta’s labour force has been transitioning through a period of unprecedented change over the past decade. In fact, according to recent statistics issued by JobsPlus, non-Maltese now make up over a quarter of the total labour force on the island, which has seen the number of foreign national workers in Malta shoot up from 9,500 in 2009 to close to 80,000 a decade later.

At AX Group, the shortage of local talent in industries such as hospitality, healthcare, and construction has resulted in the need to recruit foreign workers. In just one example pertaining to our business, within our construction division alone our headcount has gone from under 200 employees to over 300 over the past year, with the majority of these employees hailing from countries such as Turkey, India, and Southeast Asia.

While employing foreign nationals presents several challenges, such as obtaining the necessary work permits and visas, it also brings the need to address certain psychological and cultural challenges in order to ensure these employees are successfully integrated and supported at the place of work.

Many foreign workers arrive in Malta unfamiliar with the island and its culture, often having left behind families and loved ones in pursuit of better livelihoods and opportunities. It is crucial to acknowledge the bravery and sacrifices they make in choosing to work in an unfamiliar country. At times, they may experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, which will inevitably impact their performance and motivation. Not having adequate support networks in place, such as family or friends, can also make the transition to a new job in a new country more challenging. Employers who acknowledge the unique experiences and difficulties faced by foreign workers can establish effective initiatives that promote their successful integration into the workforce.  This will lead to a job that brings them a sense of fulfilment and pride.

AX Group is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with fairness and respect. As an equal opportunities employer, AX Group ensures that all job candidates and employees are considered on the basis of their skills, abilities, and potential, rather than their background, gender, age, race, religion, or any other personal characteristic.  To support its commitment to equal opportunities, AX Group has established policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion at all levels of the organization.

We believe that open communication is crucial for fostering a positive work culture. That’s why we encourage employees to share their ideas and perspectives, and to listen and learn from one another. To build relationships among colleagues, we also encourage foreign nationals to participate in company events and activities, including cross-cultural celebrations of religious festivities such as Christmas and Diwali.

Additionally, we provide professional development opportunities to help foreign nationals advance in their careers. We encourage them to take advantage of training programs and mentorship opportunities to enhance their skills and achieve their career goals. Here, we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone is treated fairly and has equal access to opportunities. Our goal is to embody this ideal and show all employees that they are valued and respected, regardless of their race or religion.

We have seen time and again that our patience and perseverance on this front has paid dividends. We dedicate a lot of time and energy into fostering cross-cultural respect and understanding among our teams, and today, our multi-culturalism has become one of our major strengths. Our commitment has resulted in a diverse and unified workforce, enriched with a multitude of skills, expertise, innovative ideas, and craftsmanship.

However, we also acknowledge the need to do more to make a positive impact in any way we can to enhance the situation for all.

To this end, we are proud to have partnered with the recently founded Malta ESG Alliance (MESGA). Together with 12 other local business leaders, this private sector consortium is actively working together to tackle environmental, social, and governance priorities to contribute to a more sustainable and socially equitable Malta. In line with these efforts, AX Group remains a vocal advocate for improved policies that ensure fair and proper payment for all workers, both local and foreign. We strive for a system that supports foreign nationals entering the workforce, ensuring that they feel secure and not exploited or subjected to unjust treatment.

By understanding the unique challenges that foreign nationals face, providing support and resources, creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment, fostering a culture of open communication, encouraging employee engagement, and providing opportunities for professional development, businesses in Malta can help foreign nationals integrate into the workforce and feel valued and supported.

It’s also crucial to keep in mind that this is not a one-time effort but a continuous process that requires commitment and dedication. It’s important to assess and evaluate the progress, take feedback, and make necessary adjustments to the strategies employed. By doing so, we can guarantee that we are fostering a welcoming environment for individuals of all backgrounds while maintaining Malta’s appeal as a desirable workplace for foreign nationals seeking better prospects beyond their home countries.