MICHAEL A. CRAWFORD is a visionary executive and transformative leader with a proven track record of building, leading, and reinventing global organizations. With decades of experience in entertainment, hospitality, real estate, and strategic development, Michael has consistently driven growth, innovation, and operational excellence across diverse industries.
Michael serves as the Chairman of the Board, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: HOFV). He oversees the company’s multi-faceted strategy to create a premier sports and entertainment destination. Under his leadership, the company went public in July 2020 and expanded its portfolio with ventures such as Hall of Fame Village Media, producing acclaimed content like The Perfect 10 documentary, and Gold Summit Gaming, encompassing eSports and sports betting. Michael’s leadership has positioned the Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Company as a trailblazer in leveraging the power of professional football to drive an innovative approach to content delivery across multiple different platforms.
Michael spent nearly 25 years with The Walt Disney Company, where he held pivotal roles, including Senior Vice President and General Manager of Shanghai Disney Resort and President of Walt Disney Holdings Shanghai. He led the negotiation, development, and launch of the $4.5B Shanghai Disney Resort, creating a seamless partnership between Disney and Chinese stakeholders while managing over 10,000 employees. He also played a critical role in launching five major Disney destinations globally, including Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Tokyo DisneySea, contributing to Disney’s international expansion and operational brand management.
Michael’s career continued with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, where he served as President of Portfolio Management and President of the Asia Pacific Region. During his tenure, he spearheaded the design, development, and operation of branded residential projects valued at over $10B, doubled asset growth in Asia, and helped craft a multi-billion-dollar strategic plan to elevate the Four Seasons brand worldwide. His leadership extended to capital planning, product quality initiatives, and owner relationships, solidifying Four Seasons' reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality.
In addition to his executive achievements, Michael currently holds multiple influential board positions, including Chair of the Compensation Committee for Texas Roadhouse (NASDAQ: TXRH) and Chair of the Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee and Lead Independent Director of Seaport Entertainment Group (NYSE: SEG). He also served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Mount Union, sharing his expertise with emerging leaders.
A thought leader and bestselling author, Michael penned From the Mouse’s House to the Penthouse, offering insights into leadership, business transformation, and innovation. He is a sought-after speaker and mentor, contributing to the development of future leaders while maintaining an active presence in professional organizations, including the IMA CEO Roundtable and Visa Advisory Council for the Asia Pacific Region. Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Bowling Green State University and an MBA from the University of Notre Dame.