Career Spotlight – Joseph Agius, Head, Financial Stability
DECEMBER 22, 2021

Joseph Agius - Head, Financial Stability, MFSA

When Joseph Agius decided that it was time for him to move on from his job within the securities services sector, the MFSA was the obvious choice for him. He joined the MFSA in 2014, occupying the role of Deputy Head (Funds) within Securities and Markets. Today he is the Head of the Financial Stability function. His role requires him to keep updated with international regulatory developments and Joseph states that he has received full support from the MFSA in this regard. During our brief chat with him we spoke about the support provided by the MFSA for self-development and career progression, his advice to graduates who are just starting out their career in financial services and his strong belief in respect.

 

What is the best thing about working at the MFSA?

I enjoy the work, the culture and the work ethic at the MFSA. Compliance has always fascinated me, and contrary to some perceptions, compliance is not “business destroying”. Its role is to ensure a balance between preserving the soundness of the financial system and protecting financial services consumers. At the same time, it allows licence holders to perform their business activities with adequate levels of controls and business integrity in competitive markets”.

 

What would be your advice to graduates just starting out their career in financial services?

A career in financial services is interesting and rewarding. On your first days, you might feel somewhat powerless but you will soon catch up and start learning and attaining the experience needed to gain credibility and dependability. I would recommend that you enrol in a Masters programme immediately. The MFSA gives its employees who are furthering their studies full support, both financially and otherwise.

 

What is the best piece of advice that you’ve received that has helped you in your career?

Always be respectful to your direct reports, peers and line managers and never ride the “high horse”. People have long memories. The more people you interact with, the more you can learn.