LifeStar CEO Roberto Apap Bologna sees 2024 as the year for ‘product development’ and ‘new markets’

LifeStar Holding plc CEO Roberto Apap Bologna has forecast that 2024 will be a year for increased product development and for establishing new markets beyond Malta’s shores.

Mr Apap Bologna’s insights came as part of the latest instalment of MaltaCEOs.mt’s end-of-year series, where he looked at the different opportunities and challenges that 2024 will bring, as well as providing a recap of his 2023.

Mr Apap Bologna joined the Malta-based insurance provider as Chief Financial Officer in 2020, and just two years later, he was named CEO. Amidst the challenge of overseeing the company’s transformation and guiding it to becoming a trusted and respected player in the market, last year he had also set himself the goal of making the team “more connected” through “increased communication” and “increased synergies”.

What 3 words would you use to sum up your 2023? Why?

Challenging, rewarding, and opportunities.

The year was exceptionally challenging because of new regulatory requirements and the new financial standards that came into force. 

It was also rewarding, as despite quite a few headwinds, we managed to keep the growth going, made very good progress on a number of initiatives, and most of all retained our valued employees.

All challenges present some very good opportunities, and we need to be conscious of them and grasp the moment.

What personal accomplishment from the past year are you most proud of?

Several. The first thing that comes to mind is team spirit. In 2023, one of the things I focused on was trying to make the team more connected. Increased communication led to increased synergies and more productivity.

What are you most grateful for in 2023?

The support I received from my family and colleagues at work.

How did you spend the New Year?

With my family and dog!

What are the biggest opportunities and challenges you believe 2024 will bring?

2024 will be another busy year. Opportunities will lie in new product development and seeking new markets beyond Malta’s shores.

There will also be challenges with the two current two hotspots in the world possibly leading to higher inflation. Resources are already an issue and finding good quality employees will be more challenging.

Is there a particular skill you’d like to develop in the new year?

Yes, always. Better people skills and understanding the younger generation more.

Is there something you’d like to change about your daily routine?

The traffic.

Where do you see yourself in a year’s time?

Managing a more diverse, more efficient, and leaner business.