ERG’s strategy session in Malta

ERG, one of the world's leading natural resources producers, held a strategy session in Malta.

ERG workshop participants visit Mdina
ERG workshop participants visit Mdina

In the beginning of March, Eurasian Resources Group (ERG), one of the world’s leading natural resources producers, held a strategy session in Malta. The Group has a diversified product portfolio ranging from aluminium, copper and cobalt to ferroalloys, iron ore, coal and electricity, and is looking to encourage its employees to think ‘outside-of-the-box’ and to further reinvent itself.

ERG, which originates from the Republic of Kazakhstan, has production assets and development projects in more than 10 countries, spanning four continents, and is a major employer in the industry. Sustainable development is embedded in how the company lives and works, and creating value for stakeholders is at the heart of ERG’s strategy. The Group’s Sustainable Development Council, chaired by Aldiyar Kaztayev, CEO of ERG Kazakhstan, coordinates efforts on ERG’s strategic development.

Kaztayev sponsored the recent strategy session in Malta. This brought together a diverse team that included around 30 top managers of ERG as well as external guests who represent some of the best minds of the mining world. The session, run as a five day workshop, was aimed to get strategic thinking on the future of the industry and spark creativity in order to bring forth new strategies.

ERG's strategy session in Malta
ERG's strategy session in Malta
ERG's strategy session in Malta
ERG's strategy session in Malta

The participants were really inspired by the local environment in Malta. In addition to enjoying the benefits of a more traditional business meeting, they were able to experience the cultural heritage of the country and to draw inspiration from their surroundings. Country-wide cultural excursions helped the attendees bond with each other and supported their teamwork.

Valletta, the European Capital of Culture 2018, was selected by Kaztayev for a venue of the strategy session as the capital of a unique country which has both proudly preserved its traditions and taken bold steps to capitalise on its long-term competitive advantages. The country has managed to keep its authenticity whilst adjusting to new global trends and socio-economic developments.

The session received very positive feedback from its participants. Specifically, they appreciated being picked up on vintage buses and being able to wander the lamp lit streets of Mdina at night. The team was able to take part in several other excursions, including a discovery tour of Malta’s three cities with electric cars, a tour of the Customs House and a farewell lunch in a traditional Maltese bakery.

Touring the Three Cities with electric cars
Touring the Three Cities with electric cars

Kaztayev’s intention is to build upon the success of this session and to look to develop effective partnership in Malta. The company is always open to new opportunities, and its management team looks forward to creating new cross-border and cross-industry clusters.