John Russo

Senior Legal Counsel @ Axiom

About

As a versatile General Counsel, Chief Privacy Officer and Corporate Secretary, with a robust background in gaming, fintech and privacy, I have handled legal and regulatory affairs, privacy matters, public relations, governmental and legislative relations, compliance and corporate security across Canada, USA, Latin America, Australia, and the UK. I have extensive experience in Fintech, Gaming and Public/Private corporations and advising boards of directors. I am a purpose-driven leader with a proven ability to champion new ideas, build winning teams and drive innovation to deliver strong results to all stakeholders. My leadership style is characterized by a pragmatic approach prioritizing Communication, Cooperation and Common Sense as the foundational pillars for success.

Country

Canada

City

Toronto

Industry

Gambling & Casinos

Skill

Privacy Law, Corporate Governance, Legal Compliance, Leadership, Financial Services, Risk Management, Due Diligence, Data Privacy, Securities Regulation, Privacy Compliance, Executive Management, Mergers & Acquisitions, Risk Assessment, Fraud, Financial Regulation, AML, Banking, Corporate Law, Anti Money Laundering, Credit Cards

Experience

Senior Legal Counsel

Axiom

2023-9 - Present · 3 yrs 1 mo

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Providing counsel to a Crown Corporation specializing in internet, land-based casino gaming and horse-racing. Advising on Provincial procurement and gaming operating agreements.

General Counsel, Chief Privacy Officer and Corporate Secretary

Great Canadian Entertainment

2018 - 2023 · 5 yrs

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Worked on casino modernization & construction development plans & successful billion dollar take-private sale. Provided strategic guidance to various boards of directors & board committees on privacy & legal/compliance, ESG & corporate governance matters.

Vice President, Legal Counsel - Equifax - International Workforce Solutions

Equifax

2017-1 - 2018-2 · 1 yr 2 mos

Toronto

Spearheaded first to market launch of new product initiative in Canada, UK and Australia. Led legal, privacy, sales and marketing teams in client relations and solution expansion to international markets.

Vice President, Legal Counsel & Chief Privacy Officer

Equifax Canada

2008-7 - 2016-12 · 8 yrs 6 mos

Toronto, Canada Area

Responsible for oversight of legal and regulatory compliance, global sourcing, corporate and information security and governmental relations. Co-chaired the Equifax Global Incident Response team and successfully launched Breach protection services internationally. Award-winning general counsel recognized for best in class delivery of legal services, outstanding leadership, litigation management practices and strategic growth and revenue generation.

Senior Attorney

Equifax Canada

2007-7 - 2008-7 · 1 yr 1 mo

Served on Canadian senior leadership team and chaired Equifax International Litigation Committee. Championed numerous Equifax 101 consumer awareness campaigns to media, regulators and consumers.