Rick has been working in government and politics for over 40 years. He founded the firm in 1995 and since then has provided unparalleled leadership and expertise to clients throughout New York State and Washington, D.C.

In growing the firm to where it is today, Rick has carefully assembled a team of experienced and hardworking professionals at OA who exemplify the level of dedication, integrity and leadership it takes to achieve our client’s goals. This has led OA to develop into one of the premier government relations firms in New York State. For over 30 years, Rick has served our clients’ diverse interest in many areas including economic development, financial services and tax. In doing so Rick has maintained longstanding relations in all branches of government.

Before starting the firm, Rick was the Assistant for Legislative Affairs for Governor Mario Cuomo. Rick advised the Governor on legislation and was the liaison between the Governor’s office and the NYS Legislature. Prior to that, he served as Assistant for Regional Affairs advising the Governor on regional and local matters, and assisting local government officials in all areas of state government.

Rick also served as the Director of the Environmental Bond Act, and was the Legislative Coordinator for the New York State Consumer Protection Board. Rick began his career in state government as a senior legislative aide to Assemblyman Melvin Zimmer.

For the last 5 years, Rick has been named to City & State’s “Albany Power 100” list which recognizes the most influential players in New York State government and politics. In 2019, he was also recognized as one of City & State’s “50 Over Fifty: The Age Disruptors,” an award which honors leaders in government, business and media who have distinguished themselves by helping New York in civic affairs. In 2025, Rick and COO Diana Ostroff were recognized by the Albany Business Review “Power 50 Duos” list, which recognizes business partners who are committed to uplifting and strengthening the Capital District community. For the past two years, Rick has been named a “Power Player in Public Relations and Lobbying” by amNY and PoliticsNY. Under Rick’s leadership, Ostroff Associates has been consistently ranked a top 5 lobbying firm in New York State.

Rick served as the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Upstate New York/Vermont Chapter for six years and is currently the Corporate Co-Chair for the Albany Light the Night Walk, and is a member of the LLS National Philanthropy Committee. Locally, he serves on the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the UAlbany Athletics Board. Rick is also an avid supporter of Albany’s South End Children’s Café and their efforts to improve food security in the community.

Rick has a degree in Economics from the State University of New York at Albany.