‘Adapting to change is essential to remain competitive’ – Owen Grech, Finex Malta CEO

As a dynamic boutique corporate services provider, Finex Malta leverages the expertise of its team to drive growth and innovation. CEO Owen Grech looks ahead to a future of expanded services and a growing client portfolio, while also positioning Malta as a key player in the global financial services landscape.

Owen Grech, CEO of corporate services provider Finex Malta, leads his company with a clear vision and hands-on approach. From managing operations and driving business development to mentoring his team, Owen wears many hats. “Being a boutique firm brings its challenges, but it also allows me to be a listener, a mentor, and even to roll up my sleeves to get the job done,” he explains.

Founded in 2019, Finex Malta has swiftly carved out its place in the competitive corporate services sector, offering tailored solutions to clients across various industries. For Owen, establishing the firm was the realisation of a long-held ambition. “It was always a dream of mine to grow this company from scratch. Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve built a solid client base, largely through word-of-mouth referrals,” he reflects. The company operates on two fundamental pillars: a tailored, client-focused approach to corporate services and a commitment to leveraging advanced IT tools. “We don’t just want to be the non-executive director who shows up for board meetings,” Owen asserts. “Our clients rely on us for day-to-day insights and strategic advice.” This personalised service has resonated with clients, earning the firm a strong reputation, partly due to its focus on cutting-edge technology, which has not only streamlined Finex Malta’s internal operations, but also enhanced its offerings – including assisting clients to implement accounting software that is integrated with CRM tools, inventory management and more.

“Adapting to change is essential to remain competitive in an evolving market, and we practise what we preach,” Owen maintains. For example, Finex Malta’s rigorous compliance processes, driven by the team’s hard work and adaptability, earned it a Class C Corporate Services Provider (CSP) licence by the Malta Financial Services Authority, allowing the firm to offer the full suite of CSP services. “Securing this as a small outfit was a huge milestone, proving we meet the standards of much larger firms,” he notes. This adaptability has propelled Finex Malta’s growth from core CSP and accounting services to include taxation, VAT and HR solutions, serving clients across industries such as gaming, retail, renewable energy, and Government entities.

2024 marked a turning point for Finex Malta. The firm consolidated its existing operations, laying the groundwork for its future, while revenue and client onboarding exceeded expectations. “We were bolstered by a wave of new clients. Many were former connections choosing to work with us again, which was a testament to the quality of our service,” Owen smiles. One highlight was assisting a client in two significant financial transactions, which involved collaborating with global financial players. “It boosted our exposure and credibility, and strengthened our ability to navigate complex projects while delivering results that benefit clients and reinforce our reputation,” he remarks.

As 2025 begins, Finex Malta is preparing to enter new markets, including aviation and yachting, where Malta’s fiscal advantages create exciting opportunities. The company is also planning a rebranding initiative to reflect its evolution and goals. “It’s time to showcase who we’ve become and where we’re headed,” Owen affirms. Marketing and employer branding remain key areas of focus as Finex Malta seeks to attract top talent and expand its visibility. “As a boutique company, we’re not as well-known as larger players, which is why we position ourselves as a home for ambitious professionals,” he shares.

Owen is optimistic about Malta’s business environment remaining relatively stable despite structural challenges that could impact competitiveness. “I don’t anticipate drastic changes in the economy’s stability,” he remarks, “but both Finex Malta and the wider economy must embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) to fully exploit the growth opportunities it brings.” The Government’s digital transformation is another priority Owen highlights. While Malta’s private sector has rapidly embraced digitalisation, inefficiencies in public services often create bottlenecks. “Sometimes we still have to physically visit an office to collect certificates,” he shares. “Digitally speaking, the Government must continue to improve.”

Despite these challenges, Owen believes in Malta’s ability to perform well economically and maintain its reputation as an international business hub. Promoting the country’s advantages while encouraging entrepreneurs to invest locally remains essential. “We aim to assist in bringing entrepreneurs to Malta to build and innovate because it’s beneficial for everyone,” he emphasises. “I’m a strong advocate for collaboration within Malta’s corporate services sector because partnerships with competitors strengthen the business ecosystem. There’s power in unity within the sector. By working together, we’ll achieve better results for clients while promoting Malta as a destination for business.”

This collaborative ethos extends to Finex Malta’s role in emerging industries. The company has already onboarded clients in blockchain and renewable energy, going beyond traditional corporate services to facilitate connections with the Government and other local resources. “These are innovative sectors, and we’re taking on a more strategic, leading role by helping clients bring their ideas to Malta,” the CEO highlights.

For Owen, leadership is about more than achieving professional milestones. He places equal emphasis on fostering personal growth within his team. “Given that we’re a small, dynamic team, I value true collaboration and open communication. Reliability and teamwork are central to everything we do. It’s about being there for each other and our clients,” he notes. He also takes pride in mentoring employees and providing opportunities for growth. “We don’t have rigid career ladders like larger firms, but we provide a strong foundation for skill development and career progression,” Owen says. This approach has created a culture where employees feel empowered to contribute to the company’s success.

As a CEO, Owen faces the perennial challenge of balancing professional and personal commitments. “Managing emails is a killer,” he laughs. Yet, as a father of two, he prioritises family time, carving out moments for school activities and weekend outings. Outside work, he enjoys cooking, experimenting in the kitchen and preparing Christmas lunch for his family. He also has a passion for sports – “though mostly watching them on TV and not participating!”

Owen’s passion for his job is equally palpable. His excitement about the firm’s goals is evident as he outlines his vision for Finex Malta’s future. Beyond 2025, he remains steadfast in his objectives for continued growth and innovation, and contributing to Malta’s position as a thriving business epicentre. “We want to expand our client portfolio while entering new markets and strengthening our position as a trusted choice for both startups and established businesses seeking to operate in Malta. We’re determined to continue providing high-quality work with a boutique, personalised touch,” he says.

International expansion is also on the horizon. Owen recognises the importance of building partnerships with global brands to take the firm to the next level. However, this growth will demand additional resources and talent. “We’ll definitely need to expand our team to support the growth we’re targeting,” he acknowledges. Ultimately, Owen views Finex Malta’s journey as part of a broader effort to enhance Malta’s business landscape. By embracing technology, fostering collaboration and mentoring the next generation, he is committed to creating lasting value. “We’re proud of how far we’ve come, but we’re always focused on where we want to go. The path is clear, and we’re steadily working towards our goals,” he concludes.   

This article is part of the serialisation of 50 interviews featured in Malta CEOs 2025 – the sister brand to MaltaCEOs.mt and an annual high-end publication bringing together some of the country’s most influential business leaders