Hard Rock International has strengthen its global CSR initiative, after announcing the appointment of Paul Pellizzari as vice president of global social responsibility.
In his new role Pellizzari is to hold overall accountability for the growing entertainment brand’s social responsibility programmes, initiatives and strategies, building upon work undertaken in his previous position at the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.
During time spent at the OLGC a “global leadership position” was developed, including building and leading the organisation’s responsible gaming programme, which subsequently was named “Best Overall Responsible Gaming Program in the World” by the World Lottery Association in 2014, before scooping 16 other national and international awards.
Prior to leading social responsibility for the 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.
Pellizzari has written two books, in addition to dozens of articles featuring in a range of publications, focusing on the topics of corporate social responsibility.
Jeff Hook, executive vice president of development and marketing at Hard Rock International, said of the new appointment: “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.”
HRI has also revealed that tournament poker is to return to its Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino property in Hollywood, Florida, from November 14 – 28, with the Seminole Hard Rock Rock ‘N’ Roll Poker Open.
Addressing the series, Seminole Hard Rock Tournament Director Tony Burns explained: “Year in and year out, the Rock ‘N’ Roll Poker Open has been one of our best poker series. Never was this more apparent than in 2016 when the series-opening $360 buy-in, $1 million guarantee drew more than 5,000 entries making it the largest poker tournament in state history.
“That benchmark stands to this day, and we’re eager to get cards in the air for this year’s series, which sees us partner with the World Poker Tour to bring the South Florida market a $3,500 buy-in, $2 million guarantee championship.”
