Leadership, ethics and the art of negotiation

The Chevening Alumni Association recently organised a conference entitled "Leadership, ethics and the art of negotiation", which was attended by approximately 90 participants from different backgrounds.

The event was opened by its main promoter, Christopher P. Buttigieg, who said this was now an annual event that continued to strengthen the skills and capabilities of Chevening Alumni apart from strengthening this important network.

The Chevening Alumni Association is a good medium to ensure continuous networking between Chevening Alumni and to provide various lifelong learning opportunities.

International and local experts included Professor Alexander Roberts from the Edinburgh Business School, who spoke about a possible future talent shortage in Malta. In his analysis Professor Roberts identified various areas in which Malta should invest.

Professor Roberts, who is currently conducting research on talent shortage in the UK, has designed and developed the Masters in Strategic Focus at Edinburgh Business School.

Dr David Fabri, MFSA director, gave an interesting speech on ethics in business practice, law and journalism, while Dr Vanessa Borg, MIM director of studies, analysed the competencies of a winning leader. The focus of Dr Borg's speech was on the difference a leader can make on motivational aspects and on change management. Dr Borg tied the leadership role with the framework developed in her latest research on performance and stewardship.

The conference was launched by Labour MEP Joseph Muscat, who analysed what is going on in the EU, asking about the rationale behind what the EU is doing.

The conference proceeded with a discussion by a panel comprising Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, Dr Simon Busuttil, Dr John C. Grech and Fredrick Mifsud Bonnici. Various issues came up, such as education.

Dr Busuttil gave his perspective on Malta's role in the EU, claiming that we should stop seeking derogations and play by the rules. Obviously Malta needs to do its best to influence these rules to its advantage.

Mrs Coleiro Preca called on both political parties to draw up a national housing strategy, talking about the difficulties which were being faced by the Maltese to own property.

The conference was closed by British High Commissioner Nick Archer, who expressed satisfaction at the outcome of the conference, saying that further similar events should take place to contribute further to lifelong learning.

The conference was managed by the Malta Institute of Management.