Leadership transitions often shape the future of an organisation, especially within international education where trust, collaboration, and innovation are essential. For FELTOM, the appointment of Katrin De Fex Marriaga as Chief Executive Officer marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for English language education in Malta. Taking over from former CEO Jessica Rees Jones, Katrin steps into the role with a clear vision grounded in honesty, sustainable growth, and strong organisational culture. Her leadership approach reflects the evolving needs of the international education industry, where adaptability and long term thinking are becoming increasingly important.
Katrin De Fex Marriaga brings over 17 years of experience in the ELT sector to her role as CEO of FELTOM—but just as importantly, she brings energy, creativity, and a genuine passion for people.
Her career has been shaped by a hands-on approach to leadership, from managing complex operations and driving growth strategies to supporting teams and ensuring high standards in quality and compliance. Having worked across multiple roles in the education sector, Katrin developed a deep understanding of how strong relationships, clear communication, and attention to detail can transform organisations and the experiences they deliver.
Outside of work, Katrin is equally driven by her creative side. A mother of a little boy, she enjoys writing, singing, and dancing—especially salsa and bachata—and has even performed in local festivals. She also loves cooking, reading, and expressing herself through storytelling and the arts. This blend of structure and creativity defines her leadership style: focused and strategic, yet warm, approachable, and people-oriented.
As CEO, Katrin is committed to building on FELTOM’s strong foundations while fostering collaboration, innovation, and a positive impact across the industry.
Rather than presenting herself as a leader with all the answers, Katrin De Fex Marriaga describes her approach as one rooted in understanding before action. She believes meaningful progress comes from asking the right questions and creating structures that allow people to thrive independently.
Speaking about her leadership philosophy, Katrin explained that she is motivated by challenges and opportunities to improve systems in a thoughtful and lasting way. Her goal is not to centralise decision making, but to create an organisation that grows stronger through shared ownership and collaboration.
This mindset aligns closely with the values that have helped FELTOM become a respected voice within Malta’s English language teaching sector and the wider international education community.
During a reflective conversation between outgoing CEO Jessica and incoming CEO Katrin, one theme remained constant throughout: culture matters.
Jessica highlighted that FELTOM’s success has always depended on the commitment and passion of its people. She emphasised the importance of maintaining authenticity, accountability, and trust across the organisation.
Katrin agreed that preserving culture does not mean resisting change. Instead, she believes organisations must continue moving forward while protecting the values that define them. Her perspective demonstrates a balanced leadership approach that combines stability with innovation, an increasingly valuable quality in today’s international education landscape.
As Malta continues strengthening its position as a leading destination for English language learning, FELTOM plays a vital role in supporting quality standards, student experiences, and collaboration across the sector.
Katrin’s appointment comes at a time when international education providers are navigating changing student expectations, global competition, and rapid transformation across the industry. Her focus on clarity, transparency, and strategic growth positions FELTOM well for the future.
She openly acknowledged that one of her greatest challenges will be resisting the pressure to move too quickly in a new leadership role. Instead, she aims to listen carefully, understand the organisation deeply, and make decisions that support long term success.
This measured approach reflects the kind of leadership increasingly valued across the global education sector.
For Jessica, success in leadership has never been about personal recognition. Her hope for FELTOM’s future is simple: continued growth without losing the organisation’s identity.
Katrin appears ready to carry that vision forward. Her ambition is to build systems, teams, and structures that continue succeeding independently over time. It is a leadership philosophy centred not on individual prominence, but on sustainable impact.
As FELTOM enters this new era, the organisation remains focused on strengthening Malta’s reputation within international education while continuing to support excellence in English language teaching.
With Katrin De Fex Marriaga stepping into the role of CEO, FELTOM looks set to continue evolving with confidence, purpose, and clarity.
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