Gozo Channel Operations Ltd has announced a significant leadership restructuring, with the appointment of Ronald Sultana as its new Chief Executive Officer and Marlene Cini as Chairperson, the first woman to hold the position.
In a statement, the Ministry for Gozo said the changes mark an important transition for one of Gozo's most strategically important transport operators.
The role of Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer has now been formally separated, with the CEO position becoming a full-time executive role focused on the company's day-to-day operations and long-term transformation.
Cini, who is taking on the role of Chairperson, brings extensive experience in public administration, legal affairs, corporate governance and strategic leadership, the statement said.
She has previously held senior governance roles, including Secretary of the Board of Gozo Channel Operations Ltd, Secretary of the Board of the Gozo Regional Development Authority, and Vice Head of the Maltese Delegation to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe.
She holds a Doctorate in Law from the University of Malta and a professional certificate in taxation.
Ronald Sultana, who is now CEO, previously served as Director responsible for Tourism and Economic Development within the Ministry for Gozo since 2019.
During that period, Gozo recorded growth in both tourism and investment. The Ministry said his sectoral experience and ability to translate strategy into operational results position him strongly to lead the company through its ongoing transformation.
The company is entering a period of significant investment needs, with plans to modernise and expand its fleet in response to rising demand. Priorities will also include improvements in sustainability and operational efficiency, alongside upgrades to digital systems such as ticketing platforms and customer service channels, the statement said.
The Ministry for Gozo also thanked outgoing Chairman Joe Cordina for his service and contribution to the company over recent years.
The leadership changes come as Gozo Channel Operations Ltd prepares for a broader programme of investment aimed at strengthening connectivity between Gozo and Malta, including planned upgrades at the Ċirkewwa-Mġarr route infrastructure and related facilities.