Rocco Meliambro: Ethical Capital & Cannabis Ventures - Unveiled

Damon Luettgen V 01 May 2025

Is it possible for an investor with a background in cannabis, real estate, and technology to also be a leader in ethical business practices? The story of Rocco Meliambro, the chair of Ethical Capital Partners, suggests that it is, navigating the complexities of various industries while emphasizing principled leadership.

Rocco Meliambro's journey, marked by extensive investment expertise both in Canada and internationally, has led him to the helm of Ethical Capital Partners. This Canadian private equity firm, founded in 2022 in Montreal, has gained recognition for its acquisition of Aylo, the parent company of Pornhub, in March 2023. Meliambro, a cannabis entrepreneur with experience in technology, real estate, and mining ventures, brings a diverse perspective to the firm.

Ethical Capital Partners, as the name suggests, aims to focus on identifying properties with the potential to "create attractive returns over a compelling time horizon," according to Meliambro. The firm's mission extends beyond mere financial gain, as it actively seeks out investment and advisory opportunities in industries that require principled ethical leadership. Fady Mansour, a criminal lawyer, serves as the Managing Partner of the firm, and Derek Ogden, a retired Chief Superintendent of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, is also a founding partner.

Meliambro's career has seen him involved in various ventures, including those in the cannabis sector. His experience, combined with his position as chairman of Ethical Capital Partners, positions him as a key figure in the intersection of finance, ethics, and diverse industries. With a network that includes connections in New York and a history in Montreal, his journey represents a blend of international business and local presence.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Rocco Meliambro
Date of Birth	October 3, 1956
Age (as of November 7, 2024)	68 years old
Current Residence	Brookfield, CT
Previous Residences	Mahopac, NY; Mount Kisco, NY
Education	Wharton School of Business
Current Position	Chairman, Ethical Capital Partners Ltd.
Industry Experience	Technology, Cannabis, Real Estate, Mining, Public Markets, Private Enterprises
Known Positions	Chairman at Ethical Capital Partners Ltd. and Director of National Access Cannabis Corporation
Spouse	Grazia Meliambro (born Gioffre)
Marital Status	Married
Family	Grazia Barilla (born Meliambro), Carmine Francesco Antonio Meliambro and 5 other siblings.
Known Aliases	Rocco S Meliambr, Rocco J Meliambro, Rocco Meliambr, Rocco Meliambr and Rocco Meliambr
Professional Experience	Extensive experience in investment, including public markets and private enterprises, both in Canada and internationally. Led ventures in various sectors.
Focus	Identifying investment opportunities requiring principled ethical leadership.
Firm Focus	Identifying properties with the potential to generate attractive returns over a compelling time horizon.
Notable Activities	Acquisition of Aylo, the owner of Pornhub, by Ethical Capital Partners in March 2023.
LinkedIn Profile	Rocco Meliambro's LinkedIn Profile

The formation of Ethical Capital Partners in Montreal in 2022 marked the beginning of a new chapter for Meliambro and his partners. The acquisition of Aylo, though the sum was undisclosed, placed the firm at the forefront of a rapidly changing landscape. Fady Mansour and Derek Ogden, alongside Meliambro, have built a team that focuses on responsible leadership and has created an advisory board with members from diverse perspectives and experiences, critical to the decision-making process.

The firm's approach is to invest in industries that demand strong ethical leadership, combining financial acumen with a commitment to principled business practices. The leadership team's varied backgrounds, including criminal law and law enforcement, add a unique dimension to their strategic approach. The presence of Derek Ogden, the retired Chief Superintendent of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, is an example of the firm's commitment to a principled approach.

Meliambro's history in the cannabis industry is another cornerstone of his leadership, and it is intertwined with the founding of Ethical Capital Partners. This entrepreneurial background is an asset for identifying opportunities in the industry. His success in this field, alongside his investment expertise and focus on ethical leadership, showcases his ambition and vision.

The involvement of individuals like Fady Mansour, whose experience in criminal and regulatory counsel provides essential insight and expertise, reinforces the strength of the firm. With all the diverse backgrounds, the firm appears to be well-prepared to evaluate investments and provide the necessary guidance.

The firm's acquisition of Aylo and its place in the market, is a bold move that places Ethical Capital Partners in a contentious but rapidly evolving sector. This acquisition, and the firm's focus on "attractive returns" and "compelling time horizons," reveals its aim to succeed in challenging environments.

Meliambro's work in healthcare, as seen by his connection to Isabella Geriatric Center, adds yet another layer to his varied background. His work in these fields suggests a breadth of experience and dedication to a wider spectrum of sectors.

Ethical Capital Partners' founding in Montreal points to the Canadian financial market, which could potentially lead to business and investment opportunities. It signifies that the firm is focused on a unique strategy, combining business acumen and ethical principles.

The involvement of Chuck Rifici, a prominent figure in the Canadian cannabis market, in earlier projects adds to Meliambro's track record. This connection further cements Meliambro's role as a significant player in the industry and emphasizes the role of cannabis in his business efforts.

With its leadership and experience, Ethical Capital Partners is set to be a prominent player in the market for businesses that embrace ethical leadership. Rocco Meliambro's leadership, with his diversified background and clear focus, is key to the company's strategy, ensuring it is well-equipped to identify opportunities and contribute to a variety of sectors.

In conclusion, the story of Rocco Meliambro and Ethical Capital Partners is a narrative of adaptability and vision. His experience in various industries, along with the firm's focus on principled leadership, makes it an intriguing case study. As the company expands and continues to navigate the complexities of finance and ethics, it will be worth watching its impact on the markets.