The St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation has signed a new and updated collective agreement with its employees.

Officially signed in May 2026, the agreement follows a constructive and collaborative process between management and employee representatives, and establishes an enhanced framework of employment conditions, professional development opportunities, and employee benefits that reflect the evolving needs of the Foundation and its people.

Colonel Dr Mark Mallia, President of the St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation, said the collective agreement demonstrates the Foundation's maturity as an employer and its determination to continue investing in its people.

“I would like to acknowledge the collaboration between all stakeholders involved,” he said.

“Through open dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared vision, we have reached an agreement that benefits both our employees and the organisation as a whole."

CEO Tonio Mallia noted that the agreement at a significant moment for the Foundation, as it continues to strengthen its operations, visitor experience, conservation efforts, and cultural outreach, reflecting the progress being made across the Co-Cathedral complex.

"This new agreement reflects three studies taken into consideration – the market, the industry, and the economy," he said. "These studies allowed us to create a collective agreement that substantiates our current status as an Employer of Choice."

Professor Monsignor Emmanuel Agius said the agreement is a testament to the Foundation's vision to focus more closely on the wellbeing of its employees.

"The success of the Foundation is built on the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of its employees," he said. "This agreement reflects our conviction that investing in our people is essential to safeguarding the future of St John's Co-Cathedral and continuing to deliver excellence in everything we do."

Chief People Officer Kevin Attard said the new improvements include a health insurance plan for employees and their dependants within the same household, increased annual salary increments compared with the previous collective agreement, and the renewal of the Foundation's agreement with the Richmond Foundation as part of its Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

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

Rosalie Farrugia, representative of the Employee Union within St John's Co-Cathedral, said the workforce has increased in the past three years and this growth had to be matched by an agreement that reflects the needs and expectations of its members

“We are pleased that this process was carried out in a spirit of genuine dialogue, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with the Foundation for the benefit of all employees,” she said.

In 2025, the Foundation was recognised by Talexio as an Employee Approved Workplace.