25 years of hospitality and turn-key entertainment project management have taught Mike a lot of lessons, but three things certainly stand out: trust, empowerment, and transparency. As both trusted client advisor and AOA team lead, Mike focuses on clear navigation, obstacle assessment, and immeasurable value. Tom and Mike founded AOA with the founding principle of respect: a foundation that Mike carries through every project and beyond.
It’s a foundation that has also carried him through a star-studded list of clients and an amazing set of projects: Fortune-50 companies and exciting entertainment experts alike litter AOA’s client list, as do world-class attractions and luxury hotel experiences. Among Mike’s most notable projects are Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Pandora – The World of Avatar, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, and the construction of both Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
And as for his experience, Mike Ostendorf has managed over $4 billion in project value across the immersive entertainment and hospitality industry. Once a client’s creative vision is established, he takes the reins into a construction mindset; he has the constant constructive adaptability required to build themed environments, making him a client liaison for the ages. Mike has worked with countless theme park designers for various world-class companies; whether you’re looking for a Disney theme park designer, an award-winning creative museum professional, or a anything in-between, Mike’s team has the person you’re searching for. Having served in various executive roles across the entertainment and luxury hotel world, Mike has a diverse background – and he’s ready to apply it to any project around the globe.
From the board room, to the drafting tables, to the construction site, Mike understands what it takes to actually realize client goals – and he understands how to communicate that to a crowd. For guests, clients, construction professionals, and so many others in-between, he leads AOA into clear communication, timely schedules, and fiscal responsibility. A passion for people, projects, and professionalism make Mike an excellent client contact, a fantastic project manager, and a proud leader of AOA.