The signing of a new three-year Collective Agreement in June 2026 marks an important milestone for St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation. More than a framework governing employment conditions, the agreement reflects its ongoing commitment to its employees and reinforces its belief that people are the Foundation's greatest asset.

As one of Malta's most important cultural and historical institutions, St John's Co-Cathedral is renowned for preserving and promoting a unique heritage that attracts visitors from around the world. Behind every visitor experience, conservation project and operational success is a dedicated team whose professionalism and commitment make it all possible.

The Foundation recognises that achieving excellence starts with investing in its people, creating an environment where employees feel respected, supported and empowered to contribute to the organisation's success.

Reached through a constructive and collaborative process between management and employee representatives, the new agreement provides stability and clarity over the coming three years, establishing an enhanced framework of employment conditions, professional development opportunities and employee benefits that reflect the evolving needs of the Foundation and its people.

Among the improvements introduced through the updated agreement are a health insurance plan for employees and their dependants within the same household and increased annual salary increments compared with the previous agreement – enhancements informed by dedicated studies into the market, the industry and the economy, undertaken to ensure the agreement substantiates the Foundation's status as an Employer of Choice.

Kevin Attard, Chief People Officer, said: "Our employees are at the heart of everything we achieve. This agreement demonstrates our commitment to creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to develop both personally and professionally."

Over recent years, the Foundation has continued to strengthen its people-focused approach through several initiatives designed to enhance the employee experience, guided by a simple principle: When employees feel valued, they are more engaged, motivated and able to perform at their best.

One key area of focus has been employee wellbeing. Through its Employee Assistance Programme, renewed as part of the new agreement in collaboration with the Richmond Foundation, employees have access to professional and confidential support services whenever needed. The Foundation also continues to invest in healthcare initiatives, including health insurance coverage for all employees, providing an additional layer of support and security for our workforce.

At the same time, their commitment extends beyond wellbeing. The Foundation firmly believes that every employee should have the opportunity to work in an environment that promotes fairness, dignity and equal opportunities – a commitment recognised through the NCPE Equality Mark.

The Foundation also actively participates in the CORE Platform, reinforcing their efforts to create a healthy organisational culture where employee engagement, mental wellbeing and personal growth are encouraged, as part of a wider strategy supporting employees throughout their professional journey.

As an organisation, they continuously seek opportunities to improve their practices and align themselves with recognised standards. The attainment of the FHRD Quality Mark and the NCPE Equality Mark, together with recognition by Talexio in 2025 as an Employee Approved Workplace, demonstrates their commitment to maintaining high standards in human resource management and organisational excellence.

Perhaps the most important aspect of their people strategy, however, is the culture they strive to build every day, one in which employees feel their contributions matter, their voices are heard, and they are an integral part of the Foundation's future. This culture of mutual respect and collaboration is essential in enabling the Foundation to fulfil their mission while adapting to the challenges and opportunities of a constantly evolving environment.

The signing of this Collective Agreement therefore represents more than an administrative achievement. It is another step in their ongoing investment in their people and a reaffirmation of our commitment to creating a workplace where employees can grow, contribute and thrive.

As they look towards the future, St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation remains committed to placing people at the centre of its strategy. By continuing to invest in their employees, they strengthen not only our organisation but also their ability to preserve and share one of Malta's most treasured cultural landmarks for generations to come.