From Chief Retail Banking Officer to CEO
Prior to joining the General Management Program (GMP), Kenneth Farrugia served as the chief retail banking officer at the Bank of Valletta, Malta's largest banking and financial services organization, which employs about 2,100 employees. Following the program, he was promoted to CEO. We spoke with Farrugia about his experience in GMP, what aspects of the program were most helpful as he moved from CRBO to CEO, and what learnings he still uses today.
Why did you apply to the General Management Program?
Despite my academic background and work experience, I felt that GMP offered a very well-rounded opportunity that would further nurture and enrich my existing knowledge and experience. I was driven by my quest for a fresh academic yet practical challenge that would allow me to immerse myself with like-minded executives operating across various economic sectors.
Did the program and faculty meet your expectations and objectives?
Absolutely. Without a shadow of a doubt, this program not only has met my expectations but also has exceeded them. GMP provided me with a broad view of the real business world through the various case studies that we discussed. The socioeconomic and geopolitical forces impacting businesses worldwide provided significant clarity on the way to consider the management of complex challenges that businesses face in the current rapidly changing global environment.
How did GMP prepare you for your new role?
The personal development sessions with my HBS Executive Coach, the team-building events, and the chance to discuss highly interesting case studies have all in their own way contributed to preparing me for the role of CEO, which I was aspiring to achieve post-GMP.
What learnings and frameworks from GMP have been most useful as you navigate your new role?
In my view, the opportunity to work closely with fellow executives during the program, inspiring others and being inspired by others, managing your strengths and addressing your weaknesses, and recognizing and learning from the strengths of others have been invaluable to me. I particularly enjoyed the engaging case study sessions, as well as the discussions in my learning group that I found to be intellectually stimulating.
How would you summarize the program's value to others who are considering applying to GMP?
My message is simple: Regardless of your prior participation in executive programs, HBS Executive Education's General Management Program offers a unique blend of academic and practical experiences that will provide invaluable insights, enrich your skills, and influence your approach to assessing, managing, and making decisions in your daily responsibilities. Last but not least, during and following this program, you will build lifelong friendships that you will find to be supportive in your career aspirations going forward.