Claire Pisani wins Malta Businesswoman Of The Year

Claire Pisani has won the third edition of the Malta Businesswoman of the Year Awards, in recognition of her "exceptional" role as Vice President of TEVA Pharmaceuticals (Malta).

Event organisers HSBC said Ms Pisani's tenacity and determination were vital in supporting operational leaders in 26 sites by developing strategic and operational plans.

“No doubt, it is an immense honour for me to be the winner of this prestigious national award. But beyond the honour, this award comes with a sense of responsibility too. It is up to us to strive to set a good example for young women, encouraging them to embrace their competencies and capabilities so they can break through their glass ceiling and successfully progress their career ambitions," Ms Pisani said.

Krystle Penza, founder and Managing Director of jewellery store MVintage, was awarded the Female Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2020 for the "inspirational leadership" she demonstrated during her 15 years of experience in fashion brands, brand management, distribution, wholesale, retail and franchising.

"When she first started her business, she was the acting salesperson, accountant, operations and product manager, striving to ensure that her product line, which is inspired by local cultural values, meets the highest standards," HSBC said.

The Sustainability Role Model Award 2020 went to Dr Roberta Lepre for her contributions to the community. Established in 2007, her boutique firm Weave Consulting, has been built on the pillars of equality and diversity. Over the years, and following successful completion of various projects, Weave Consulting has evolved to offer corporate service responsibility (CSR) services. Today, under her leadership, the company offers fully fledged services in the area of corporate sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) consulting.

The Company Award for Excellence in the Promotion of Women in Business 2020 was given to Grant Thornton Malta for the firm’s commitment towards empowering women in business. More than 58 per cent of the 120-strong team at Grant Thornton Malta is made up of women and the company is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace.

HSBC Bank launched the Malta Businesswoman of the Year Awards in 2018 to help promote and recognise the excellence of women who have achieved significant success in business.

Dr Joseph Sammut, HSBC Malta General Counsel, who chaired the panel, said: “Empowering women in the business environment does not only mean that they can have more control of their lives but it also means that their strengths, abilities and expertise are acknowledged. Today, the benefits of increasing the ratio of women leaders are proven by research and empirical evidence.”

The awards night was held under the patronage of President George Vella.