‘We want to push the boundaries. We want to lead’ – AX Group CEO and Deputy Chairman Michael Warrington

With a career spanning banking, finance, and leading one of Malta’s most diverse group of companies, Michael Warrington brings a wealth of experience to his role as CEO and Deputy Chairman of AX Group. Under his leadership, the group has undertaken ambitious projects that are reshaping Malta’s urban landscape, all while remaining true to its roots as a family business with a strong commitment to community building and heritage preservation.

From construction and restoration to hospitality and healthcare, AX Group has established itself as a key player in Malta’s business landscape. Within this diverse setting, it’s Michael Warrington’s role as CEO and Deputy Chairman to “help set the vision and strategy, and ensure every part of the organisation is aligned,” he explains, though he is firmly against micromanaging.

“I don’t see my role as dictating but rather directing and motivating. If everyone understands the common vision, they’ll work to achieve it. I’m fortunate to have a team of individuals who I consider world-class leaders around me.”

Michael’s career has been marked by significant milestones. He began in banking, an experience he credits with shaping his business approach. “As a banker and accountant, I’ve always been more aligned with the financial side of industries,” he reflects. His background in finance has equipped him to understand what drives businesses and how to optimise outcomes.

“I can focus on the finer details, drilling down into the minutiae of numbers because I understand all the components and, most importantly, how they impact the value and performance of the business,” Michael says. “At the same time, I can take a broader perspective, which aligns with my role as CEO and Deputy Chairman: Ensuring the group achieves results, delivering appropriate returns for our investors and shareholders, maintaining liquidity, and ensuring our financing structures are sound.”

One of the most significant transitions in Michael’s career was moving from the corporate world to AX Group. A key consideration, he highlights, is the nature of the business. “We are a family business,” he says. “I believe the business exists for the family, not the other way around.” This philosophy has guided the group’s transition from the first to the second generation, with the third generation already showing interest.

During his tenure, AX Group has embarked on several ambitious projects. The Verdala Hotel and Verdala Terraces, which are nearing completion, stand out as particularly significant. “Verdala has been on the cards for nearly 30 years,” the CEO and Deputy Chairman reveals.

What makes these developments unique, in Michael’s view, is not just the location but also the quality of construction and attention to detail that AX Group is known for. “People buying residences at Verdala aren’t purchasing apartments to speculate – they’re buying their home,” he emphasises.

The development will also be the first community in Malta to offer a 24/7 concierge service, a feature Michael believes sets it apart. “We’ll have a shop for daily needs, a contracted pharmacy and a hotel focused on well-being and tranquillity. While there’s competition, we see the opportunity to elevate the offering and create something unique on the island.”

Building communities is a recurring theme in AX Group’s projects. “We’ve realised how important it is to be in sync with the community where you’re located,” the CEO and Deputy Chairman says, noting that this community-centric approach has been successful in other ventures.

Looking ahead, Michael sees technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) playing an increasingly important role in the group’s operations. The company recently embarked on a three-year plan to overhaul its IT infrastructure. “No company can say they won’t embrace AI,” he states. From improving customer experiences to streamlining operations, technology is central to AX Group’s future strategy.

“The success of humanity lies in our ability to communicate effectively,” Michael observes. He stresses that embracing technology and keeping up with trends is crucial, especially given that AX Hotels cater to younger visitors. “If we try to communicate with them in old-fashioned ways, it won’t work.”

On the development front, Michael reflects on AX Group’s role in shaping Malta’s urban and economic landscape, highlighting the importance of leading by example. “When you raise standards, your competition will try to exceed them, and that’s a positive thing,” he says. “We’re passionate about restoration. We value and treasure our built heritage, and we want to be part of such projects.”

This commitment to preservation extends to the group’s construction practices. “Construction is inherently risky,” Michael acknowledges. “Implementing new laws and regulations is crucial. I personally review every health and safety report, and an independent firm prepares a barometer for each site every fortnight. This culture shapes how we operate.”

Michael’s vision for AX Group is one of continuous improvement and responsible development. “We want to push boundaries,” he asserts. “We want to lead.” As Malta continues to develop, AX Group is committed to playing a key role in shaping a sustainable and thriving future.

Reflecting on the challenges and opportunities ahead, Michael remains optimistic yet cautious. “2024 has been an exceptional year for us,” he says. “The reopening of ODYCY, formerly Suncrest, has been a tremendous boost, and we’re where we want to be. We’ve also restructured our management teams in the construction and care divisions, and we’re now seeing the benefits.”

Looking to the future, Michael anticipates continued growth and investment. “2025 will focus on completing the sale of several residences at the Verdala Terraces,” he predicts. “It will also be the year we begin phase two of our project plan in Qawra, which involves demolishing Sunny Coast Hotel and Lido, and rebuilding them to form part of the ODYCY destination.”

This next chapter will also see a leadership transition, following the appointment of Kenneth Abela as Chief Executive Officer-Designate – a strategic move which aligns with the group’s vision for future growth and leadership continuity. Michael, who became Deputy Chairman of AX Group with effect from 1st December 2024, will retain his role as CEO throughout 2025.

As AX Group continues to evolve, Michael remains committed to the values that have brought the company this far: a focus on quality, a commitment to community and a vision that honours the past while embracing innovation.

his 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.