Professional Development Programmes launched by MTA

"The ability to manage and lead people is a must for hospitality and tourism employers," said MTA's Human Resource and Support Services Directorate Frank Xerri de Caro during the opening of a series of six seminars and workshops aimed at owners and managers of tourism organisations.

The programmes, especially aimed at small and medium-sized establishments, was launched on May 15 at the Coastline Hotel.

The aim was to promote the benefits of training and development, and support the implementation of good people management practices within the tourism sector.

Lecturers included MISCO managing director Joseph F.X. Zahra, CERT (State Training Agency in Ireland) professional development manager John Shanahan and Actons Hotel Kinsale, Ireland personnel and training manager Laura Walsh.

MTA human resource and support services sirector John Muscat Drago and manager training and development Joseph Tanti also addressed the seminars on professional development programmes.

The Leadership for Results seminar focused on the capabilities, knowledge and skills needed to achieve required results.

The Managing People in Tourism seminar gave an overview of the key elements of successful and professional people management practices. The task of attracting and retaining the right staff remains a key issue for hospitality and tourism employers.

The seminars were well-attended by hotels, restaurants, catering establishments, travel agencies, destination management companies, English language schools and diving centres managers and owners.

Following these seminars, a number of development programmes aimed at middle management will be organised. Each programme will include three half-day workshops.

More information may be obtained from Katya Vella Bamber, Malta Tourism Authority on tel. 2291-5401/7, or e-mail katya.vellabamber@visitmalta.com.