‘Promoting inclusivity is not only the right thing to do, but also a strategic imperative’ – APS CSO

APS Bank Chief Strategy Officer Liana DeBattista has affirmed that promoting an inclusive workplace environment should not only be seen as the right thing to do, but it is also a key “strategic imperative.”

She commented as APS Bank on Tuesday announced its endorsement of the Malta Diversity and Inclusion Charter, a commitment from the bank to fostering diversity and inclusion within the organisation. The initiative was launched by Corporate Citizenship for Responsible Enterprises (CORE) Platform and is supported by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector.

At a recent signing event, attended by dignitaries including Minister for Inclusion and Social Well-being Julia Farrugia Portelli and Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality Rebecca Buttigieg, APS Bank became the first corporate entity to embrace the charter’s principles.

During the event, Ms DeBattista said: “We firmly believe that promoting an inclusive environment is not only the right thing to do, but is also a strategic imperative.”

She remarked that the bank has a diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) policy that aims to create an inclusive environment that respects the diversity of all its people.

“We have also formulated a DEI strategy, supported by action plans with a view to achieve lasting and impactful change,” Ms DeBattista added.

Additionally, she also emphasised that APS Bank’s journey towards diversity and inclusion is ongoing, recognising the continuous need for further learning and improvement. Ms DeBattista also highlighted the importance of listening to a diverse range of perspectives to identify opportunities for organisational practices and positively impact the wider community.

In addition to this, CORE is holding the Malta Diversity and Inclusion Charter Conference on 22nd May 2024, hosted at the Xara Lodge. APS Bank is supporting and participating in the event. For more information about the conference, visit CORE’s website by clicking here.