Reflections of a Group COO.
As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Gasan Group, I’ve had the privilege of navigating through diverse industries, each with its unique challenges and opportunities. Working in such a dynamic environment has been both enriching and challenging, shaping not just my professional journey but also my perspective on leadership and organizational dynamics. My involvement, particularly in managing expectations of all stakeholders, such as partners, staff members and principals has been the ultimate university in business skills, that I feel is largely only possible in such a diverse and longstanding group such as ours.
One of the most striking aspects of leading operations across multiple sectors such as Mobility, Finance, Property and Engineering, is the constant need for adaptability. Each industry comes with its own set of intricacies, market forces, and operational requirements. From finance to automotive, from hospitality to insurance, the breadth of the Gasan Group’s portfolio demands a nimble approach, capable of swift adjustments and strategic realignments. This adaptability has not only honed my problem-solving skills but has also instilled in me a deep appreciation for innovation and resilience. The informal, practical, professional and well thought out approach is something that I see reflected in the Gasan Group’s ethos at every level and across all operations and investments.
Whether it’s optimizing supply chains, enhancing customer experiences, or fostering a culture of excellence, the core tenets of operational efficiency transcend industry boundaries. This comprehensive perspective has been invaluable in driving synergies across our various businesses, facilitating knowledge exchange, and unlocking new growth and innovation. The Group has always been at the forefront of innovation both in terms of offerings and process. This vision is embodied in milestones such as being the first private company to enter the Maltese capital markets with a bond issue in 1994, bringing Cable Television to the nation and spearheading electrification of mobility. It’s this kind of clarity of vision that keeps me excited, an excitement led by our Group CEO Mark Gasan and shared by the rest of our team.
The Gasan Group is established on sound values, something that is essential to me personally in my work and family life. Being involved in a solid, multi-sector group has provided me with a unique vantage point to observe macroeconomic trends and global shifts. In an interconnected world where geopolitical events and technological advancements have far-reaching implications, staying abreast of emerging trends is imperative. An easy example here is the massive and rapid shift in sustainability we are experiencing in automotive (electrification) for our GasanZammit Motors operation, and also Lifts and Airconditioning for our Mekanika operation. By leveraging insights gleaned from different sectors, we are better equipped to anticipate market dynamics, identify emerging opportunities, and navigate potential risks. This proactive approach not only enhances our competitive advantage but also enables us to chart a sustainable path forward amidst uncertainty.
Collaboration lies at the heart of our group’s success. As COO, I have had the privilege of leading cross-functional teams comprising diverse talents and expertise. Retaining focus on the professional and personal development of our teams, across the multiple operations, remains a key trait of our development path.
Mine has been an enriching journey characterized by solid foundations in the finance field, the positioning of Human Resources at the centre of everything we do, a holistic strategic focus, adaptability and collaboration. As COO, I am committed to leveraging these experiences to steer our group towards sustained growth and success, while remaining agile in the face of evolving challenges. Together, as a compact team, we will continue to embrace the versatility inherent in our diverse portfolio, turning challenges into opportunities, and charting a course towards a brighter future.
Stefan Deguara is a Certified Public Accountant by profession, the Group Chief Operating Officer of the Gasan Group and CEO of GasanZammit Motors Ltd. He has been a part of the Gasan Group for 18 years.