From Strait Street to the Boardroom: My Journey with a Master’s in Business Ethics

Imagine this: you’re standing on the bustling Strait Street, the heart of Malta’s nightlife, when a question pops into your head – how do I ensure that the next big business idea I have doesn’t just make money, but also does good? That’s exactly where I found myself a few years ago, and it’s what led me to pursue a Master’s in Business Ethics.

Why Business Ethics? Why Now?

Malta, with its thriving business scene and growing start-up culture, is a hotbed for innovation. But with growth comes responsibility. We’ve seen enough scandals – from Enron to VW – to know that business without ethics is a recipe for disaster. So, I set out to understand how to do business right, and that’s what my Master’s was all about.

Lessons Learned

My journey was filled with eye-opening lessons. I learned about stakeholder theory from Edward Freeman, who argues that businesses should serve not just shareholders, but also employees, customers, communities, and the environment. I discovered the power of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, like those by local companies like HSBC Malta Foundation and the Bank of Valletta Foundation, which give back to the community.

I also grappled with complex issues like whistleblowing, insider trading, and corruption. I even had to write a paper on whether Malta’s anti-money laundering laws go far enough – a hot topic in our little island nation.

Putting Theory into Practice

But a Master’s isn’t just about theory. I had to apply what I learned. I interned at a local tech start-up, helping them implement an ethical code of conduct. I also worked on a project with the Malta Chamber of Commerce, helping them develop a guide for businesses on how to do CSR right.

And you know what? It worked. The start-up saw a boost in employee morale and customer trust. The Chamber’s guide is now a go-to resource for local businesses. I saw, firsthand, the power of business done ethically.

But my journey didn’t end there. I’ve since joined the board of a local NGO, using my business acumen to help them make a bigger impact. I’ve also started mentoring young entrepreneurs, encouraging them to think about ethics from the get-go.

Malta is changing fast. We’re becoming a hub for tech, finance, and tourism. But with growth comes responsibility. We need more businesses that do good, not just make money. We need more leaders who understand that business is about more than the bottom line.

So, if you’re a young professional wondering how to make your mark, consider this: a Master’s in Business Ethics might just be the key to turning Strait Street into a symbol of ethical business, not just nightlife.