Who We Are
Who We Are
The Malta Employers’ Association is a leading national representative body, formally recognised as a key social partner. As the voice of employers in Malta, we play a significant role in social dialogue, collaborating not only with Government and policymakers but, importantly, also with trade unions and other constituted bodies to further a balanced, productive, and competitive environment.
Our mission is to uphold the interests of all responsible employers, whilst fostering healthy employment relations and practices. Our members range from Malta’s largest employer organisations, well-established groups of companies and listed entities to small start-ups and micro businesses still setting out on their journey.
With long decades of experience, we are firmly focused on the future and the opportunities ahead, and our Association therefore drives social dialogue and actively participates in policy-making for a sustainable and dynamic economy.
Firmly committed to Malta, we also have an open and international outlook – we are firmly plugged in to what is happening in the wider world around us, being members of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) and represented in Europe via our on-going participation in SGI Europe, the World Employment Confederation of Europe (WEC Europe), and BUSINESSMED.
We Are What We Believe
We are approachable, politically neutral, and pragmatic, and we strive for win-win solutions — it’s all about strengthening relationships. Relationships between people, between people and the organisations which employ them, between organisations themselves and the society they form part of, and relationships with the entire economic system which they empower.
So, whilst we fiercely champion the interest of employer members, we respect all our social partners, fervently upholding the rule of law and the principles of good governance as we seek fair and equitable outcomes that can work.
What We Do, How We Help
In line with our mission, we pursue a broad and dynamic remit, to encompass:
- Influencing National Policy – playing an influential role in shaping national legislation and strategy, representing employers in high-level discussions formulating national economic policy, legislation and strategy, labour law and budget proposals. As we aspire to shape the country’s economic direction, we focus single-mindedly on fostering sustainable, long-term economic growth that aligns with our ethical principles.
- Providing Specialised Businesses Support – providing tangible assistance to companies at a micro level. Our in-house legal expertise is available to members, offering practical support on a wide range of employment matters, including employment law, industrial relations, and personnel management. Whether addressing employment contracts or resolving workplace disputes, we have become a trusted partner for navigating the complexities of Malta’s labour market.
- Driving Innovation and Business Transformation: The Association is committed to providing businesses with the tools they need to adapt to an evolving marketplace. Through targeted resources and advisory services, we support members in embracing innovation, fostering digital transformation, and adopting forward-looking strategies to remain competitive.
Why You Should Join
We’ve been supporting employer organisations in Malta since 1965, working hand-in-hand with them, understanding their issues, addressing their concerns, providing them with tools and advice, highlighting their opportunities.
Above all, our Association has remained a steadfast advocate for employers, championing their cause resolutely and fairly.
If we aspire to move ahead, we must, more than ever before, unite, collaborate, and keep re-inventing ourselves.
And together, we will.
Code of Ethics
Members shall:
• Meet employers’ statutory requirements in the established time-frame, for the benefit of members, employees and society at large;
• Be loyal to the Association, primarily through abiding by the Association’s Statute, directives and decisions;
• Inform the Association about any changes in the labour market that can materially affect the national or sectoral operating environment;
• Cultivate solidarity among themselves; such solidarity shall be aimed at achieving an enhanced socioeconomic environment for the benefit of members in the first instance, and also for the general well-being of the economy and society;
• Recognise that the concept of fair competition shall not be restricted to economic activity but shall also extend to the labour market;
• Recognise that the economic concerns of the employer and the dignity of the employees should be complimentary;
• Respect the rights of employees in the exercise of the members’ rights in Employee relations;
• Not discriminate among employees and prospective employees on grounds of politics, union affiliation, religion, creed, disability, civil status, gender or race.
Download Statute (PDF)
President Message
We’re delighted to welcome you to the online home of the Malta Employers’ Association.
Our Association has been proudly -and successfully- representing and supporting employers in Malta for 60 years, and we are determined to continue doing so.
Our mission is simple: to stand by businesses of all sizes, promoting healthy workplace practices and driving sustainable economic growth. As a key voice in Malta’s social dialogue, we work closely with government, trade unions, and other partners to shape policies that foster competitiveness, fairness, and innovation.
Looking ahead, we’re dedicated to helping businesses navigate an uncertain and ever-changing world. Whether through practical support, forward-thinking strategies, or staying connected to global trends via our international partnerships, we’re here to give our members the tools they need to succeed.
Our website is just one way we’re enhancing our connection with members and stakeholders. It’s part of our commitment to deliver value, especially through digital channels, making it easier to access the services and resources our members have come to rely on. Employers and their people at the heart of everything we do, and we hope you’ll find our support helpful.
We all aspire to a stronger and more prosperous business community — and this can only happen through collaboration, innovation, and unity.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Our Council
Joanne Bondin
President
Arthur Muscat
Honorary President
DOLORES SAMMUT BONNICI
Senior Vice-President & Health and Professional Services Sector Group Representative
Ivan Refalo
Deputy President & Manufacturing Industry Sector Group Representative
Stephen L. muscat
Honorary Treasurer
jackıe attard montalto
Honorary Secretary
CLAIRE BRIFFA
Officer & Education Sector Group Representative
MARTIN VELLA
Officer & Construction, Electrical, Engineering and Metal Sector Group Representative
NORMAN MIFSUD
Officer & Banking, Insurance and Financial Services Sector Group Representative
DAVID PEROTTI
Council Member
JONATHAN FERRITO
Council Member
JOSETTE CUTAJAR
Council Member
At Bank of Valletta we greatly value our partnership with the Malta Employers. The Association has been instrumental in fostering a stable and thriving business environment in Malta. Their unwavering commitment to supporting employers is reflected in the professional guidance and advocacy they provide. This has enabled employers to navigate challenges and embrace growth opportunities with a high degree of confidence.
The Malta Employers Association has been a very valuable point of reference in supporting Seifert Systems on legal matters related to employment. The guidance and regular updates issued by MEA covering ongoing and current issues has proven to be a fantastic resource for us as employers. In such a fast-changing environment and with so many challenges, the lobbying which the MEA does on our behalf ensures that our voice is heard, strengthening the strategic importance of our Maltese location!
We have always held a strong relationship with the MEA. In fact, its founding President back in 1958 was Anthony Miceli Farrugia, at the time managing director for Farsons. Our experience reflects an MEA that is highly active in promoting and developing a culture for enterprise and entrepreneurship, apart from recognising it as an important reference point and thought leader in employment legislation.
As one of the largest employers in Malta, we are privileged to work closely with the Malta Employers Association (MEA). In a highly specialised workplace environment, MEA’s expert advice on employment regulations and industrial relations has always been of great assistance to us at Malta Freeport Terminals. MEA’s dedication to fostering harmonious and thriving workplaces underscores their reputation as a trusted resource for employers in Malta. Moreover, MEA's proactive approach to addressing emerging challenges is commendable as this not only supports individual companies but also contributes towards the broader development of the Maltese economy. We highly value our membership with MEA and look forward to many more years of fruitful collaboration.
The Malta Employers Association stands out for its exceptional service and unwavering commitment to supporting employers. The team is not only knowledgeable but also incredibly responsive and dedicated, always ready to offer guidance and support on various employment-related matters. Their comprehensive range of services greatly benefited our organization. Their workshops are noteworthy and provide invaluable insights into industry trends and best practices. Their legal advice and training programs give us the tools to navigate the complexities of the ever-evolving employment landscape. Their proactive approach to advocacy ensures that the interests of employers are well-represented at both national and EU levels. Their continuous efforts contribute to a more favourable business environment. Malta Employers offers an unparalleled service that has significantly contributed to our success. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking reliable and professional support in managing their employment needs.
Our membership with the Malta Employers Association has been nothing short of beneficial. With their dynamic and integral approach, the Malta Employers team have consistently demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to membership return-on-investment. What sets this organisation apart is their truly stakeholder-centric methodology and collaborative spirit. They don't just provide services; they forge genuine partnerships with their members. Their objective analysis and reliable execution have been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives forward. Throughout our engagement with the Malta Employers team and fellow members, I've been consistently impressed by their ability to; navigate complex challenges with precision, develop innovative solutions tailored to our specific context, maintain unwavering professional standards, and communicate transparently and effectively.
Our Mission
We uphold the interests of responsible employers in fostering healthy employment relations and practices. We drive social dialogue and policy for a sustainable and dynamic economy.
Our Vision
To be the leading strategic partner for employers and policymakers, and a catalyst for innovative employment best practice.
Our Values
- Dynamic – agile, adaptable and forward looking leadership
- Integrity – upholding and promoting good governance, correctness and ethical employment practices
- Stakeholder Centric – organisations and the people within them are our core focus
- Collaborative – building and nurturing healthy relationships, promoting members’ and national interest
- Objective – guided by an evidence based, consistent and balanced approach
- Reliable – trustworthy, dependable and professional
International Affiliations
International Organisation of Employers
European Centre of Employers and Enterprises
International Labour Organization
Union of Mediterranean Confederations of Enterprises
World Employment Confederation