Traditionally, asset management/ hedge funds / funds & investment management businesses setting up in Malta and growing their local footprint in terms of employees, have focused on middle and back-office roles, with front office roles traditionally being held in the originating jurisdiction, being UK, Switzerland, and so on.

Throughout the past 9 years, Fran Moisa has assisted many such businesses setting up in Malta with the recruitment of middle and back-office professionals ( and not only) and we wanted to share with you a few tips, that hopefully will help you, if you are considering setting up your business in Malta or growing your existing business in Malta:

  • Do not shy away from relocations

Unlike London, for example, the availability of skills locally is slightly more limited, not solely by the number of professionals itself, but also by the fact that, traditionally, within the asset management/ hedge funds/fund & investment management clusters, the staff tenure exceeds the financial services industry average, and professionals do not move jobs that often.

This is why, in certain instances, relocation of professionals is the most viable solution for your business.

In our experience, we have successfully relocated individuals from across the EU , but also from outside the EU, who have not only adapted superbly locally, but have grown with their employers.

  • Structure your role and your package carefully

It is important, especially if you run / will run a small set up, that interaction with other offices or team members from different locations, is encouraged and developed.

Being the sole analyst in Malta can be quite lonely and burn out can ensue quickly.

Some of the most successful setups offer the opportunity for the Malta staff to work with their other offices in Europe for a set period annually – this is incredibly successful as it blends the team more closely, local professionals in Malta can better understand the business and they can also boost their professional connections and skills sets.

From a package perspective, if you run a bonus system, as it's usually the standard practice in the industry, make sure that is outlined well, particularly if it's subject to KPI's or fund performance.

  • Do not underestimate the importance of NED's / Independent Committee Members

Leaving any regulatory requirements aside, it is imperative that you appoint knowledgeable and committed NED's / Committee Members, to assist you in the smooth running of the business, as well as to enhance operational efficiency.

  • Assess transitions carefully

For example, transitions from front office to middle office roles, whilst successful in many areas, if not assessed thoroughly, can lead to a very rapid staff turnover.

Ensure that the role is clearly outlined, particularly by contrasting the different dynamics between the two.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.