Leadership transition at GSD: evolving leadership, elevating excellence

GSD is pleased to announce changes in its strategic leadership. Maria Micallef, the current CEO, will assume the role of Executive Director, with Mark Farrugia taking on the role of General Manager (GM). This transition reflects the Company’s ongoing commitment to sustainable growth, operational excellence, and long-term business success.

Maria Micallef: strategic leadership for long-term growth

With over 20 years of senior management experience, Maria Micallef has played a pivotal role in driving GSD’s success and business transformation. As CEO of The General Soft Drinks Co. Ltd., she has led key expansion initiatives, operational improvements, and corporate governance advancements.

In her new role as Executive Director, Maria will focus on long-term strategic initiatives, ensuring that GSD remains at the forefront of innovation, industry leadership, and sustainable business practices.

Maria is an accomplished leader across various industries ranging from aviation, insurance brokerage and retailing. In addition to her current role within GSD she is Executive Director at the Waterfront Hotel, as well as The Institute of English Language Studies. She also sits as a non-executive director on other boards and also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Richmond Foundation.

Mark Farrugia: driving operational excellence

As he steps into the role of General Manager, Mark Farrugia brings a strong background in sales, marketing, and business development. Having previously served as GSD’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Mark has been instrumental in enhancing market positioning, strengthening customer engagement, and driving revenue growth.

With his expertise in market strategies, business expansion, and operational leadership, Mark will oversee daily operations and departmental alignment, ensuring efficiency, performance optimization, and continued business success.

Looking ahead: a future built on strength and innovation

This leadership transition represents an important step in GSD’s ongoing growth and development. With Maria Micallef providing strategic oversight as Executive Director and Mark Farrugia leading daily operations as General Manager, GSD is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of excellence, innovation, and industry leadership.

Together, their combined expertise will further strengthen GSD’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable growth.

About GSD

Refreshing Malta for over half a century, GSD is the sole licensed bottler for the iconic Coca-Cola Company products and a distributor for Monster Energy, Royal Swinkels, AB InBev, Carlsberg, Heineken, Caffé Mauro and Llanllyr Source – offering the ideal beverage for every time of the day!

Our dedication extends beyond quenching thirst; it’s about creating memorable experiences and opportunities for others to thrive in – offering meaningful career experiences through our vast operations and exposure to world renowned brands, as well as participating in nation-wide environmental initiatives driven by our vision of sustainability.