Hazelview Investments has appointed Corrado Russo and Michael Tsourounis as Co-CEOs, the company announced Thursday.

Their appointments take effect immediately as predecessor Ugo Bizzarri transitions to executive chair.

The leadership change follows what the Toronto-based firm described as a deliberate, multi-year succession strategy aimed at ensuring continuity and supporting Hazelview’s next phase of growth. In his new role, Bizzarri will continue to guide the firm’s long-term vision while the incoming co-CEOs lead day-to-day operations. Russo and Tsourounis will also remain in their respective roles as chief investment officers of Hazelview’s public and private real estate platforms.

Russo and Tsourounis each bring more than two decades of experience with the firm and have worked closely together in shaping its strategy, culture, and growth.

“This transition reflects the strength of our leadership bench and the depth we’ve built across the organization,” said Bizzarri. “Corrado and Michael have been instrumental in shaping our platform and are exceptionally well-positioned to lead Hazelview forward. I’m proud of what we’ve built and confident in the team driving the business ahead.”

Hazelview said the co-CEO structure aligns with its integrated dual-platform model spanning private and public real estate investment strategies and reflects the complementary expertise of its leadership.

“This transition is not about a change in direction; it reflects the continuity of the platform and strategy we’ve built,” said Tsourounis. “I’m honoured to step into this role alongside Corrado, and grateful for the opportunity to build on the foundation we’ve established as we continue to grow the business.”

Russo added that the firm remains focused on delivering consistent performance for clients.

“We have a deep bench of experienced professionals and we remain focused on delivering sustainable results for our clients,” he said. “I’m proud to take on this role with Michael and look forward to continuing to advance Hazelview’s long-term strategy.”

Russo has led the firm’s public real estate investment platform through multiple market cycles, with prior experience spanning portfolio management, equity research, and direct real estate investing, including roles with Forum Securities, Citi Property Investors, and the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan. Tsourounis has built Hazelview’s private real estate platform, overseeing investments across multi-family, development, industrial, and credit strategies, and is a member of the firm’s executive committee.

Hazelview is a global real estate investment manager with more than 25 years of experience and about $10 billion in assets under management, offering integrated access to public and private-market real estate opportunities.

Pictured (Left to right): Michael Tsourinis, Ugo Bizzarri, Corrado Russo

Photo: CNW Group/Hazelview