Deborah Schembri has won the second edition of the Malta Businesswoman of the Year Award, in recognition of her extraordinary role in structuring and growing STM Malta Pension Services Limited into a major global pension provider, as well as for demonstrating determination and perseverance in accomplishing her professional goals.

Speaking following her victory, Ms Schembri remarked:

“I am honoured to win this important and prestigious award. It is the result of my hard work, integrity and perseverance that I always have put in in the various C-Level roles that I held over the years. “In my current role as CEO & Managing Director of STM Malta Pension Services Ltd, I was/am instrumental in structuring and growing the business and also in contributing in shaping the pensions industry in Malta targeted both at local and international clients”.

Furthermore, Ms Schembri said:

“I would like that as the Winner of the Malta Businesswoman of the Year Awards, I will have the opportunity to promote the competences and capabilities of women with a view in seeing more women being appointed in decision-making positions and board members. I also hope that I serve as an inspiration and encouragement for other women”.

A virtual ceremony to announce the winners was held at San Anton Palace under the patronage of H.E. President of Malta and all nominees were invited to join remotely. The presentation of the trophies to the winners was held a few days later by H.E. George Vella, President of Malta.

The Malta Businesswoman of the Year Awards were launched in 2018 through a partnership between HSBC Bank Malta p.l.c. and the Office of the President of Malta, with the aim of highlighting outstanding female leaders in the business and economic world. This year’s edition of the awards was held under the patronage of the President of Malta, and sponsored once again by HSBC Malta, together with Farsons Group and Nestlé Malta Ltd.

“These awards are an excellent opportunity to consider women’s determination to break free from socio-cultural expectations and gender ascribed roles and instead embark on entrepreneurial missions and progress to the highest ranks and positions,” the President told the Malta Businesswoman of the Year virtual awards ceremony. H.E. encouraged more companies to introduce family-friendly measures and life-long learning schemes which promote gender balance and equal opportunities.

Caroline Buhagiar Klass, Head of Human Resources and Corporate Sustainability at HSBC Malta and Chair of the Judging Panel, said: “This year’s nominees have clearly shown that our community is rich in female success stories and these awards provide a national platform for them to be recognised and celebrated. It is our hope that up-coming female entrepreneurs are inspired by the award winners and make it to the top”.

More information about the awards and future events