This event brings together finance leaders, brand strategists, and business advisors to explore how brand and culture have become core drivers of growth, resilience, and measurable financial performance. From calculating brand value to understanding its role in talent retention and crisis recovery, the discussion will show why brand belongs at the heart of every boardroom conversation.
Kris Bartolo, Partner at Zampa Partners, opens the session with a keynote exploring how organisations can calculate and capitalise on their brand value. Using real-world and local examples, alongside exclusive data, he will demonstrate the direct link between strong brand equity, financial performance, and long-term growth.
Kris is a Certified Public Accountant and Registered Auditor, and a Partner at Zampa Partners, where he leads the firm’s financial advisory function. He joined the firm in 2014, initially leading audit and financial reporting engagements across diverse industries. Over time, his focus evolved toward financial advisory, and he was admitted to the partnership in 2021.
Kris brings a practical, results-driven mindset to his work, with a strong commitment to helping clients unlock value and achieve sustainable growth. He has advised on a wide range of projects, including business planning, valuations, financial modelling, feasibility studies, and M&A initiatives.
Kris values clear communication and a collaborative approach, working closely with clients to deliver practical, high-impact solutions. His work is grounded in a deep understanding of business dynamics and a drive to create lasting value.
Financial metrics alone no longer provide the full picture of company performance. Today’s most resilient businesses are those whose boards and C-suites recognise brand, culture, and purpose as strategic assets. This panel will explore how brand value drives recruitment and retention, strengthens resilience and recovery in times of crisis, and delivers measurable business results.
Moderator - Ivan Martin, Founder, PRSS WRKS
Ivan is a seasoned media strategist and founder of PRSS WRKS, a strategic public relations and crisis management consultancy. With a background as an award-winning journalist and collaborations with global media outlets including The Times (UK), The Guardian, and Rai News, Ivan brings expertise in brand reputation, communication strategy, and high-level moderation. His insights are rooted in newsroom rigour and a deep understanding of today’s fast-moving media landscape.
Panellists
Derek Blair, President, ICAEW
Derek Blair is President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) for 2025–26. A Chartered Accountant since 1994, he co-founded Pinkham Blair in 2004, a firm that specialises in supporting professionals transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship. His presidential priorities include implementing ICAEW’s strategic plan “Direction 2030” and strengthening member engagement.
Mark Wirth, Partner, Zampa Partners
Mark Wirth is a certified public accountant and business advisor with nearly two decades of experience working with family enterprises and regulated businesses. After co-founding Mint Finance in 2017, he merged with Zampa Partners in 2022. Known for his practical, strategic approach, Mark also lectures in the profession and supports clients in managing financial complexity with clarity and efficiency.
Peter-Jan Grech, CEO, BRND WGN
Peter-Jan Grech is the founder and CEO of BRND WGN, a brand advisory agency with a presence in Malta, the UK, and Ukraine. With over two decades of experience, he is known for guiding businesses through brand transformation and change. He is also the host of the “UnBrandMe” podcast, sits on advisory boards, and is an advocate for sustainable living, often taking on endurance challenges to support environmental causes.
Date: Monday, 20th October
Time: 18:00
Location: Xara Lodge
Fee: €30, Free for MBN Members
Thank you to Zampa Partners for their collaboration.
Zampa Partners are trusted partners who bring together expertise, data simplification, and strategic insight to deliver tailored solutions that meet each of their client’s unique needs.
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