The corporate governance skill gap in Maltese co-operatives : a study

Abstract

Purpose: The primary objective of this study is to determine whether a Skill Gap persists within the Maltese co-op movement. This is determined through the identification of the nature and major sources which may potentially result in a Corporate Governance Skill Gap. Finally, potential courses of actions and recommendations are to be discussed and ultimately selected.

Design: Primary data for this research was collected through the use of a mixed method approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five Experts in the co-operative field and six members of Professional Management who pertained to individual co-operatives. In addition, questionnaires were distributed to Members of the COM who belonged to sixteen different Maltese co-operatives.

Findings: The findings of the study indicate that a Skill Gap does in fact exist within Maltese co-operatives especially within their corporate governance. The most significant factor which leads to a Skill Gap is the oblivion of the importance of education and training by Members of the co-operative and Members of the COM. Furthermore, findings indicate that issues within the corporate governance of co-operatives further worsen the problem of Skill Gaps.

Conclusion: This research concludes that in order to ensure a successful Maltese co-operative movement, Skill Gaps have to be addressed and bridged. This can be facilitated through the recognition of the importance of having a welleducated co-operative sector. Otherwise, co-operatives will not be able to compete and achieve success in today’s complex business world.

Value: The researcher aspires that this study will be used as a base, underpinning the conduct of further research on the Maltese co-operative movement. The study aims to identify the nature and sources of Skill Gaps within the Corporate Governance of co-operatives and proposes possible courses of action in the hope of minimizing or possibly eliminating these Skill Gaps. This should allow the Maltese co-operative movement to develop in a sustainable manner.