Chief Officer - Strategy, Policy and Market Development

Reporting to the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Strategy, Policy and Legal), the Chief Officer (Strategy, Policy and Market Development) will be responsible to:

• Support the Deputy Chief Executive Officer in shaping, developing, executing, evaluating and following up on the MFSA’s strategic objectives and priorities, leading their implementation within the Directorate’s remit.
• Develop and implement strategic frameworks and initiatives aligned with MFSA’s mission, vision, strategic priorities and objectives.
• Provide strategic guidance and advice to top management on strategy, policy and regulatory product development matters.
• Lead the development, review, and implementation of regulatory policies and frameworks ensuring that they remain effective, proportionate and aligned with evolving market and regulatory developments.
• Lead research and analysis of emerging regulatory, economic, technological and market developments, identifying risks, trends, and opportunities within the financial services sector, and assessing their strategic implications for the Authority.
• Promote strategic thinking and innovation across the Authority, contributing to the strengthening of Malta’s financial services framework and its competitiveness.
• Provide leadership, direction, and support to the Heads of Units within the Directorate, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement, while ensuring the effective delivery of the Directorate’s mandate, functions and responsibilities.
• Oversee performance, leadership development and the effective functioning of the Directorate, including its resources, processes, systems and performance, ensuring the efficient delivery of its objectives.
• Provide authentic and visible leadership by maintaining a highly hands-on engagement in critical initiatives and day to day matters where required, leading by example, demonstrating the highest standards of professionalism and integrity and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, engagement and continuous improvement.
• Ensure effective communication, coordination, and collaboration across the Directorate, with other MFSA directorates, and relevant stakeholders including other authorities to support the implementation of strategic priorities and the achievement of organisational goals.
• Develop and maintain strong professional relationships with key local and international stakeholders, representing the Authority at meetings, working groups, conferences, workshops, and other relevant fora, as required and as may be requested by the Chief Executive Officer and the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Strategy, Policy and Legal).
• Keep abreast of developments in financial services regulation, supervision, and related areas, ensuring that the MFSA remains responsive to emerging challenges, trends, opportunities, and international best practices.
• Undertake frequent travel, as required, in connection with the performance of his/her duties.
• Undertake any other duties as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer and the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Strategy, Policy and Legal) and/or as may be required by the MFSA from time to time based on the exigencies of the Authority.

About You:

• Qualification at MQF Level 6 or equivalent qualification in Law, Accountancy, Banking, Finance, Financial Services, Insurance, Economics, Business Administration, or in a relevant field.
• A minimum of 7 years of senior-level experience in strategy, policy development, innovation, organisational development or related fields, in the financial services sector. A minimum of 14 years’ prior experience in a senior level role will be considered where an applicant is not in possession of a MQF Level 6 or equivalent qualification.
• Extensive experience in developing and implementing strategic initiatives and policy frameworks within complex organisations.
• Strong understanding of strategic planning, policy development, financial services regulation, market developments and innovation practices.
• Demonstrated ability to assess emerging trends and translate insights into practical organisational strategies.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to evaluate complex issues and recommend strategic solutions.
• Ability to build strong relationships across all levels of the organisation and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven ability to lead teams, influence change and deliver strategic

Skills and Competencies:

• Here it is with the bullets removed:
• Financial Services and Regulatory Awareness: Strong understanding of financial services developments and the regulatory environment and ability to assess their implications for policy, regulatory product development and the MFSA’s strategic priorities.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement long-term strategies aligned with organisational priorities.
• Policy and Development: Strong understanding of policy formulation, regulatory and product development, implementation and review processes.
• Innovation: Ability to foster innovation and identify opportunities for improvement and development.
• Leadership: Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate teams and drive performance.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Strong analytical capabilities and sound judgement.
• Stakeholder Management: Ability to build effective relationships and influence key stakeholders.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both Maltese and English.
• Ability to identify opportunities, assess risks and exercise sound judgement in relation to regulation, policy, and organisational issues.
• Strong reasoning ability, integrity, and high ethical standards.
• An individual of good moral character.
• A hands-on approach and ability to work long hours.
• People oriented and results driven.
• Flexibility, adaptability and resilience under pressure.

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.