Honoring and congratulating Charles P. Pizzi for his distinguished tenure as President and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce.

WHEREAS, Throughout his distinguished career, Charles P. “Charlie” Pizzi has been an effective advocate of business interests and regional cooperation in the Greater Philadelphia area; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Charles Pizzi was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce in April, 1989, by a committee of distinguished chief executive officers of regional and multinational corporations. In his role as the region’s chief business advocate, Charlie has fostered relationships with elected officials at every level of government, to effect positive change resulting in new legislation to enhance the competition of the region; and

WHEREAS, Under Mr. Pizzi’s leadership, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce has become one of the nation’s largest, representing more than six thousand (6,000) members. In addition, he has tripled the Chamber’s revenues; expanded its reserves; increased the number, caliber and scope of the programs and events it produces; created a number of additional membership benefits; and has established a for-profit subsidiary. He recently established a Council for University Presidents that includes thirty-three (33) institutions from the region; and

WHEREAS, Prior to his appointment as President of the Chamber, Mr. Pizzi served as Commerce Director for the City of Philadelphia, where he implemented the City’s economic development strategies and served as Chairman of the Mayor’s Development Cabinet. In this role, he was credited with, among other things, leading the reorganization, construction and expansion of the Philadelphia International Airport and the development of the Pennsylvania Convention Center; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Charles Pizzi has worked diligently and effectively for many years to ensure a friendly and prosperous business climate, so that this region may effectively compete in the global marketplace. Being professional in his demeanor and tenacious in his resolve, Mr. Pizzi has tirelessly and successfully campaigned to put this region on the economic development and business map; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby honors and congratulates Charles P. Pizzi for his distinguished tenure as President and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce.

FURTHER RESOLVED That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Charles P. “Charlie” Pizzi as evidence of the sincere sentiments and best wishes of this legislative body as he embarks on a new journey in his career.

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