Hard Rock International recently named Paul Pellizzari vice president of global social responsibility. Pellizzari will oversee social responsibility programs and initiatives throughout the far-reaching entertainment brand.
Pellizzari comes to Hard Rock from Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, where he developed its global leadership position, including building and leading OLG’s responsible gaming program. That initiative was named “Best Overall Responsible Gaming Program in the World” by the World Lottery Association in 2014 and won 16 other national and international awards.
Prior to joining OLG, Pellizzari led a research consulting practice at EthicScan Canada; developed social purpose marketing strategies for J. Walter Thompson; and worked in corporate communications for Noranda Inc. His career has involved collaborations with local, national and international governments, the United Nations and nonprofit organizations.
Pellizzari has authored two books and dozens of articles on corporate social responsibility, including “Conscious Consumption: Corporate SR and Canada’s Grocery Giants” and “Shopping with A Conscience,” plus articles in Canadian Business magazine, the Globe & Mail, Corporate Knights magazine, NOW magazine, Corporate Ethics Monitor and Canadian Gaming Business. In 2015, Pellizzari was named one of the “World’s Top 50 Social Responsibility Leadership Talents” by Global Corporate Social Responsibility Day.
Hard Rock International Executive Vice President of Development and Marketing Jeff Hook said, “It is a pleasure to welcome Paul to our Hard Rock family. Paul’s expertise and background will help contribute to the strength and development of the brand, as we strive every day to live out our brand mottos of Love All–Serve All, All is One, Take Time to be Kind and Save the Planet.”
Pellizzari holds a master of arts degree from the University of Montréal and bachelor of commerce and bachelor of arts degrees from Queen’s University, where he has taught as an adjunct professor.
