Jonathan Cardona has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Enemalta plc with effect from the 11th October, the state energy provider announced on Wednesday.

He will succeed Jason Vella, who is assisting in this transition, Enemalta said.

Energy Minister Miriam Dalli in recent days denied claims that the shake-up in the leadership structure at Enemalta was related to widespread power cuts experienced over the summer when Malta sweltered under successive heatwaves and demand reached unprecedented levels.

Mr Cardona previously served as the CEO of Malta's Individual Investor Programme (IIP) between February 2014 and December 2020.

Commenting on his new appointment, Mr Cardona said:

“I want to convey my appreciation for the trust being shown in me for this position. Together with the company board, the management, workers and shareholders, I look forward to continuing building on the good work carried out throughout the years, and strengthen such a crucial corporation for the Maltese economy”.

In addition, Jonathan Scerri has been appointed as chairperson of the Board of Directors.

On his part, Ing Scerri commented:

“I am honoured and at the same time eager to lead Enemalta’s board. The company feels like a second home, having worked here for a very long stretch in my career. There is a lot of work to be done and several targets to be met. I am convinced that the employees will be standing with us, giving their utmost to see the corporation moving forward”.

Enemalta went on to thank former CEO Ing Vella and former Chairperson Kevin Chircop for their work in the past years, and wished Mr Cardona and Ing Scerri every success in their new roles.