The MFSA was established in 2002 by the Malta Financial Services Authority Act - Chapter 330 of the Laws of Malta. The Authority is the single regulator for the financial services sector in Malta, including credit and financial institutions, securities and investment service companies, recognised investment exchanges, insurance companies and intermediaries, pension schemes, company service providers, trustees and crypto-assets. The MFSA is also responsible for the regulation and oversight of the capital markets in Malta. The Authority's main functions include the protection of consumers, integrity of financial markets, financial stability and the supervision of all financial services activities. The MFSA also holds an advisory role to Government in the formulation of policies on matters relating to the financial services industry. In the carrying out of its functions, the MFSA collaborates closely with local and international institutions.

About the Role The Chief Officer (Strategy, Policy and Market Development) will be a pivotal member of the Authority's leadership team, responsible for shaping and driving MFSA's strategic direction, regulatory policy development and organisational innovation agenda. The role will ensure that the Authority remains forward-looking, responsive and well-positioned to address emerging regulatory, market and organisational developments. The Chief Officer will lead the development of strategic initiatives, policy frameworks and innovative solutions that support the Authority's mandate and long-term objectives. This role requires a visionary leader who can translate emerging trends and opportunities into actionable strategies that strengthen the Authority's effectiveness, relevance and impact.

The Chief Officer (Strategy, Policy, and Market Development) will lead the Directorate, which will be composed of the Units responsible for Strategy and Policy, Regulatory Product Development, and Market Research. The Directorate's remit covers the provision of strategic advice and policy analysis across the financial services sector, supporting the development and implementation of the Authority's strategic cycle and regulatory development agenda. The Directorate will play a key role in shaping and strengthening the MFSA's regulatory frameworks while ensuring alignment with national priorities and international best practices. Through diligent statistical, market intelligence and research capabilities, the Directorate will identify emerging risks, trends and opportunities within the financial services landscape, assessing economic and market developments, structural shifts and market practices and their potential impact on the sector. It will promote innovation, facilitate access to financial products and services, and support a forward-looking regulatory environment. The Directorate will also ensure proactive alignment with evolving international standards and regulatory developments, contributing to the continued positioning of Malta as a competitive, reputable, and internationally recognised jurisdiction for financial services.

Reporting to the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Strategy, Policy and Legal), the Chief Officer (Strategy, Policy and Market Development) will be responsible to:

Support the Deputy Chief Executive Officer in shaping, developing, executing, evaluating and following up on the MFSA's strategic objectives and priorities, leading their implementation within the Directorate's remit.
Develop and implement strategic frameworks and initiatives aligned with MFSA's mission, vision, strategic priorities and objectives.
Provide strategic guidance and advice to top management on strategy, policy and regulatory product development matters.
Lead the development, review, and implementation of regulatory policies and frameworks ensuring that they remain effective, proportionate and aligned with evolving market and regulatory developments.
Lead research and analysis of emerging regulatory, economic, technological and market developments, identifying risks, trends, and opportunities within the financial services sector, and assessing their strategic implications for the Authority.
Promote strategic thinking and innovation across the Authority, contributing to the strengthening of Malta's financial services framework and its competitiveness.
Provide leadership, direction, and support to the Heads of Units within the Directorate, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement, while ensuring the effective delivery of the Directorate's mandate, functions and responsibilities.
Oversee performance, leadership development and the effective functioning of the Directorate, including its resources, processes, systems and performance, ensuring the efficient delivery if its objectives.
Provide authentic and visible leadership by maintaining a highly hands-on engagement in critical initiatives and day to day matters where required, leading by example, demonstrating the highest standards of professionalism and integrity and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, engagement and continuous improvement.
Ensure effective communication, coordination, and collaboration across the Directorate, with other MFSA directorates, and relevant stakeholders including other authorities to support the implementation of strategic priorities and the achievement of organisational goals.
Develop and maintain strong professional relationships with key local and international stakeholders, representing the Authority at meetings, working groups, conferences, workshops, and other relevant fora, as required and as may be requested by the Chief Executive Officer and the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Strategy, Policy and Legal).
Keep abreast of developments in financial services regulation, supervision, and related areas, ensuring that the MFSA remains responsive to emerging challenges, trends, opportunities, and international best practices.
Undertake frequent travel, as required, in connection with the performance of his/her duties.
Undertake any other duties as assigned by the Chief Executive Officer and the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Strategy, Policy and Legal) and/or as may be required by the MFSA from time to time based on the exigencies of the Authority.

About You

Qualification at MQF Level 6 or equivalent qualification in Law, Accountancy, Banking, Finance, Financial Services, Insurance, Economics, Business Administration, or in a relevant field.
A minimum of 7 years of senior-level experience in strategy, policy development, innovation, organisational development or related fields, in the financial services sector. A minimum of 14 years' prior experience in a senior level role will be considered where an applicant is not in possession of a MQF Level 6 or equivalent qualification.
Extensive experience in developing and implementing strategic initiatives and policy frameworks within complex organisations.
Strong understanding of strategic planning, policy development, financial services regulation, market developments and innovation practices.
Demonstrated ability to assess emerging trends and translate insights into practical organisational strategies.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to evaluate complex issues and recommend strategic solutions.
Ability to build strong relationships across all levels of the organisation and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
Proven ability to lead teams, influence change and deliver strategic outcomes.

Skills and Competencies:

Financial Services and Regulatory Awareness: Strong understanding of financial services developments and the regulatory environment and ability to assess their implications for policy, regulatory product development and the MFSA's strategic priorities.
Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement long-term strategies aligned with organisational priorities.
Policy and Development: Strong understanding of policy formulation, regulatory and product development, implementation and review processes.
Innovation: Ability to foster innovation and identify opportunities for improvement and development.
Leadership: Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate teams and drive performance.
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Strong analytical capabilities and sound judgement.
Stakeholder Management: Ability to build effective relationships and influence key stakeholders.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both Maltese and English.
Ability to identify opportunities, assess risks and exercise sound judgement in relation to regulation, policy, and organisational issues.
Strong reasoning ability, integrity, and high ethical standards.
An individual of good moral character.
A hands-on approach and ability to work long hours.
People oriented and results driven.
Flexibility, adaptability and resilience under pressure.

Only eligible applicants will be considered and given the opportunity to attend for a first interview. Successful candidates will be shortlisted and will be called for a second interview.

The selected candidate will be required to undergo relevant tests, background checks, and security screening prior to being offered the position in view of the sensitive nature of this role. Such checks may be conducted on an ongoing basis thereafter.

The Authority reserves the right to obtain references on the applicant from independent sources.

Deadline: 4 October 2026

Other Information The MFSA is an Equal Opportunities Employer as certified by the NCPE (National Commission for the Protection of Equality) and is committed to a policy of equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and will take care to avoid any form of discrimination in its recruitment procedures. The MFSA reserves the right to withdraw this call at any time and not to select any of the Candidates.

It is the responsibility of applicants in possession of qualifications awarded by Universities and other similar institutions outside Malta to produce a recognition statement on comparability of qualifications issued by the Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre (MQRIC). Applicants should do so preferably at application stage or otherwise at the preliminary interview should an applicant be selected for such interview. Details can be obtained by accessing the National Commission for Further and Higher Education website on under MQRIC heading.

The MFSA shall ensure that any processing of personal data is in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2016/679 (General Data Protection Regulation), the Data Protection Act (Chapter 586 of the Laws of Malta) and any other relevant European Union and national law. For further details, you may refer to the Data Protection Policy on the MFSA webpage .

Candidates are to note that the submission of any false statement/s or omission, even if unintended, may lead to the cancellation of their application and may render the candidate's appointment liable to termination.

Furthermore, please note that candidates may be asked to submit any documentation in support of the information provided, including but not limited to, proof of qualifications and Police Conduct Certificates.

Chief Officer - Strategy, Policy and Market Development

Job Description