The Malta Business Registry (MBR) on Monday announced the appointment of Geraldine Spiteri Lucas as its new Registrar. The appointment was made by Economy and Industry Minister Silvio Schembri, with the MBR falling within his Ministry's portfolio.

Dr Spiteri Lucas takes over from Joseph Farrugia, who has now retired.

Currently the MBR’s Chief Legal Officer, Dr Spiteri Lucas is a trained lawyer, with a Doctor of Laws from the University of Malta and a warrant to practice in the Maltese Courts.

She started her career with a leading local law firm, advising local and international clients on civil, commercial, corporate, shipping and aviation law. Additionally, she has represented various clients in litigation procedures before Tribunals and local courts.

She is also a member of the board of examiners for the Department of Commercial Law of the University of Malta.

In her new position, she will now be responsible for the overall management and performance of the Registry, as well as the strategic development and implementation of the Business Register.

Previously, she is said to have played a “pivotal” role in bringing about key changes within the entity that were crucial in updating the registry in line with European and international criteria.

Taking the position, Dr Spiteri Lucas expressed her gratitude towards the work carried out by her predecessor, and said: “As Registrar, I will continue to ensure that the Malta Business Registry keeps following on the great strides achieved over the past few years and continues establishing itself as an important key player within the regulatory environment.”

In view of these changes, Mr Schembri augured Dr Spiteri Lucas well for her new role and thanked Mr Farrugia for his "tremendous" work during the most challenging times of the MBR.

"The MBR is set to embark on an interesting journey that shall strengthen its role in enhancing transparency and due diligence in the best interest of the Maltese jurisdiction” said Minister Schembri.