Chief HR in the Spotlight: Making the Case for L&D
Overview
The integration of Learning and Development (L&D) with Human Resources (HR) stands as a linchpin in propelling organisational success. As HR and L&D professionals collaborate on multifaceted fronts including talent recognition, talent development, and succession planning, it becomes imperative to scrutinise the synergies and challenges defining their relationship.
The panel discussion is poised to delve into the intricate dynamics between HR and L&D, analysing points of convergence, and divergence, and investigating avenues for synergistic collaboration to elevate learning outcomes and nurture organisational growth. Panelists will engage in discussions prompted by probing questions spanning from emerging trends in L&D to its tangible effectiveness, alongside critical observations on equity in training opportunities and variances in career aspirations. Moreover, the discussion will intentionally explore the contentious intersection between promoting personal growth and fostering organisational success, igniting debate on how these objectives may sometimes conflict and whether prioritising one over the other is truly beneficial in the long run.
Through these discussions, we aim to not only distill valuable insights but also to challenge conventional wisdom and spark innovative thinking around the delicate balance between individual development and organisational advancement.
Moderator: Michelle Fenech Seguna – Founder & Director, Speak to Move
Panellists:
Ray Debattista – Chief People and Culture Officer, Bank of Valletta plc
Claire Farrugia – Chief People Officer, Ganado Advocates
Ines Silva – Chief Officer Human Resources, MAPFRE MIDDLESEA and MAPFRE MSV LIFE
Sherif Sleiman – Senior Manager HR, Baxter International Inc
The Moderator
Meet Michelle Fenech Seguna, the driving force behind Speak to Move—a communication and leadership development company with fresh appeal. Michelle is a distinguished coach and trainer in communication and leadership with a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. As the Founder and Director of Speak to Move, Michelle enables business professionals to communicate with confidence and to lead with excellence. She brings forward her knowledge acquired from her senior leadership experience to the realm of building strong leaders in organisations.
With a passion for unlocking the dual power of confident communication and effective leadership, Michelle guides professionals toward mastering the art of speaking clearly, concisely, and with unwavering confidence. Her expertise extends beyond the customary communication training, encompassing the dynamic fusion of communication and leadership skills.
Michelle thrives on working with individuals ready to embrace continuous improvement. As a dedicated advocate for personal and professional advancement, Michelle is committed to shaping individuals into articulate speakers and influential leaders who drive success and inspire positive change.
The Panellists
Ray Debattista was appointed Chief People and Culture Officer in October of 2023, after serving in an acting role since 2022. Ray joined the Bank in 1984 and throughout his career occupied various positions within the organisation, spanning both the retail network and other corporate functions. During his twenty years in Human Resources, he garnered an in-depth knowledge of the Bank and its people. His responsibilities spanned recruitment, employee engagement, performance management, training, career development, talent management as well as employee and industrial relations. As an active member of the Bank’s Executive Committee, Ray is responsible for developing and executing the HR strategy in support of the Bank’s overall business plan and strategic direction. He champions the Bank’s drive to be the Employer of Choice by focusing on employee journeys and career paths, whilst driving and implementing initiatives that enhance the wellbeing of the people. Together with his team at People & Culture, he is also responsible for succession planning, talent, and change management, as well as the management of healthy working relationships with key stakeholder groups including those representing the Bank’s employees. Ray holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Henley Management.
Claire Farrugia serves as the Chief People Officer (CPO) at Ganado Advocates, with a 27-year tenure within the firm. With over a decade of dedicated experience in Human Resources, Claire has advanced to her current leadership role, which she has successfully held for the past two years. Claire holds a Diploma in HR Management and an MBA in Coaching, Mentoring & Leadership, enriching her expertise in talent management, organisational development, and employee relations.
Ines Silva is an International HR Manager with over 25 years of experience in HR Management in a multinational environment. She is a permanent member of the Management Committees and also of the Steering Committee of MAPFRE Malta. Ines has a Master of Sciences in Human Resource Management. She is also a lecturer, researcher & trainer in Leadership, Change Management, Organisational Behaviour & Performance Appraisal.
She believes that one of the main challenges of HR is definitely how to deal with emotions, provide caregiving, and enhance well-being. We have to deliver the greatest experience to our employees with heart and soul, enhancing positive, supportive, and transformational leadership, to achieve the organisation’s performance and translate its strategy into the day-to-day reality of our people
Sherif Sleiman is an HR professional, currently leading the Malta HR team at Baxter, fostering talent attraction, management & development. With over 15 years of experience, his career spans various industries, such as education, hospitality, retail/distribution & manufacturing. His experience has been directly involved in developing talent with a focus on training within his team and across organizations.
He holds a Master’s in HRM & Training and is a qualified trainer in addition to other coaching licenses in sports and education.
Outside the business world, he is a sports enthusiast and spends his free time coaching football for young athletes & players on the autism spectrum.
