International MBA students on the Competitive Strategy module with Dr Nathaniel Massa at the Faculty of Economics, Management and Accountancy, recently had an engaging session presenting to Meridiana Wine Estate’s Founder and launch CEO Mr Mark Miceli Farrugia.
Together with Dr Massa, the MBA cohort had been researching and working on the published case-study: ‘David and Goliath: The Evolution of a Strategic Partnership in Wine’ (Phillips, 2023), featuring the Meridiana Wine Estate story. An established Maltese vinicultural success story, Meridiana pioneered premium quality wines on the Island with its internationally acclaimed “World-Class Wines of Maltese Character”.
The focus centered around Meridiana’s pivotal strategic alliance with Marchesi Antinori Srl, an internationally recognised Italian wine company with global presence dating back to 1385 – one of Italy’s biggest winemakers, touted the 10th oldest family-owned business in the world. The strategy exercise was consolidated on campus, where MBA participants engaged in discussion and debate with the Meridiana Founder; presenting their perspectives and observations on the company’s alliance dynamics and strategic partnership. This offered all participants a rich learning experience – converging theoretical and practitioner perspectives, with the Founder’s first-hand lived insight on strategic realities.
Wrapping up, the MBA cohort also visited Meridiana Wine Estate for an on-site operations review and facilities tour – together with wine-tasting and extended discussions with both the General Manager Mr Karl Chetcuti, and Founder Miceli-Farrugia. A truly applied immersive experience.
Dr Massa and FEMA take the opportunity to thank Mr Mark Miceli-Farrugia, as well as Mr Karl Chetcuti and the current management; and augur Meridiana Wine Estate continued success.
For more information on UM’s recently launched International MBA programme, visit the webpage.
NEW International MBA programme @FEMA
Think different – Reach beyond
FEMA recently launched its NEW part-time postgraduate executive flagship programme for working professionals: The International MBA. Modular and redesigned, the fully accredited internationally recognised programme features the latest in research, applied masterclasses and practical workshops aligned with today’s complex and disruptive competitive realities.
Delivered through engaging remote sessions and immersive in-person seminars by Malta’s top academics, visiting international business school professors, and specialists – it is tailored for the needs of practicing managers – whether based locally, or residing abroad. This diversity and exposure enhances the applied research and learning experience at the core of FEMA’s teaching philosophy.
Incorporating a study-visit abroad, the International MBA delivers global insight, cutting-edge best practice and applied value potential for practicing professionals, managers and others needing to upgrade their competencies and leadership capabilities, transition to senior roles; or those seeking a sound foundation for effectively establishing and running their own business in increasingly competitive environments.
For further enquiries on the NEW International MBA programme at the Faculty of Economics, Management & Accountancy (FEMA) at the University of Malta, contact Ms Jennifer Vella on 2340 6211 or send an email.
