St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation awards Employee of the Year for 2025

Ernest Cassar has been named the St John’s Co-Cathedral Foundation’s Employee of the Year for 2025, in recognition of his dedication, reliability, and quiet commitment to preserving one of Malta’s most treasured landmarks.

As a valued member of the Maintenance team, Ernest plays a vital role in maintaining the Co-Cathedral’s heritage, ensuring its spaces are cared for with the respect and attention they deserve. Beyond his technical expertise, he is known for being a dependable and supportive colleague – someone his team can always rely on.

“Much of the work carried out by our maintenance team happens quietly behind the scenes, often before the Co-Cathedral opens to the public or after hours. Yet their contribution is just as vital as any other role within the St John’s Co-Cathedral complex,” says Ian Camilleri, Chief Operations Officer. “Ernest has earned the trust and respect of his colleagues in a remarkably short time. He is hardworking and loyal, always ready to lend a hand or offer sound advice whenever needed.”

Cassar’s dedication and teamwork are consistently praised by his colleagues. Jurgen Camilleri, a fellow maintenance team member, notes that working alongside Ernest every day shows the effort and care he puts into his work, describing him as someone the team can rely on without hesitation, whether it’s an urgent repair, a long job after hours, or a task that needs doing properly the first time. John Taylor, the team foreman, adds that Ernest doesn’t just focus on his own duties but looks out for the whole team, always ready to step in, share his skills, or help solve problems on the spot. Mauro Debono echoes this sentiment, saying that Ernest consistently supports him in carrying out his responsibilities and that he has learned a great deal from working alongside him.

“What truly sets Ernest apart is his strong sense of responsibility and initiative. He understands what is required of him and consistently carries out his duties with minimal supervision, always to a high standard,” Camilleri continues. “His specialised skills, particularly in welding, woodwork, and organisation, enable him to excel in his role and add significant value to our operations. Employees like Ernest are rare, and we are truly fortunate to have him as part of our team. This recognition is well-deserved.”

Outside of work, Cassar is a devoted family man and lifelong Floriana FC and Manchester United fan – interests that reflect the same loyalty and consistency he brings to his role at the Co-Cathedral. He takes pride in working within a historic institution and approaches his responsibilities with a strong sense of ownership and respect for its significance.

The latter reflects the Foundation’s belief that protecting St John’s Co-Cathedral is not only about technical expertise, but also about the people behind the scenes whose daily efforts sustain it. Whether assisting a colleague, addressing an issue before it escalates, or simply carrying out his work with care and reliability, Ernest’s contribution extends far beyond his job description.

This award highlights the value of dedicated employees whose professionalism and accountability support the Foundation’s ongoing operations and long-term mission.

(L to R) – Mauro Debono, Ernest Cassar, Ian Camilleri, John Taylor, Jurgen Camilleri