The St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation has signed a new and updated Collective Agreement with its employees, marking another important milestone in its ongoing commitment to investing in its workforce and strengthening the organisation for the years ahead.

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

The signing ceremony was attended by Colonel Dr Mark Mallia, President of the St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation; Mr Tonio Mallia, Chief Executive Officer; Professor Monsignor Emmanuel Agius, Council Member; and Mr Kevin Attard, Chief People Officer, together with representatives of the employees and their union.

Colonel Dr Mark Mallia, President of the St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation, said: "This signing demonstrates the Foundation's maturity as an employer and our determination to continue investing in our people, who are at the heart of everything we do. I would like to acknowledge the collaboration between all stakeholders involved. 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."

Chief Executive Officer Tonio Mallia noted that the agreement arrives 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 highlighted that the agreement is a testament to the Foundation's vision to focus more closely on the wellbeing of the employees who carry out its work. "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 highlighted the improvements introduced through the updated agreement, which 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, stated that "This collective agreement strengthens the relationship between the Union and the Foundation. The workforce has increased in the past three years, and it was important for this growth to be matched by an agreement that reflects the needs and expectations of our 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."

The new Collective Agreement further reinforces the Foundation's position as an employer of choice, following its recognition by Talexio in 2025 as an Employee Approved Workplace. This reflects a shared commitment between management and employees to continue building a positive, inclusive, and forward-looking workplace culture.

The St John's Co-Cathedral Foundation remains dedicated not only to preserving an exceptional cultural and artistic heritage but also to fostering an environment in which its employees can thrive and contribute to the Foundation's continued success.