Owen O’Donoghue Steps In as CEO to Lead PCH’s Digital Revival
Publishers Clearing House (PCH), freshly acquired by ARB Interactive, has named Owen O’Donoghue as its new Chief Executive Officer. Known for its iconic sweepstakes and Prize Patrol, PCH is preparing to modernize its business with a mobile-first strategy under O’Donoghue’s leadership.
At the heart of that strategy is the launch of the Prize Protection Program, a bankruptcy-remote structure designed to guarantee all future prize payouts and strengthen player trust.
From Facebook Gaming to PCH’s Helm
O’Donoghue brings more than 15 years of experience at the intersection of gaming and technology. As Director of Gaming at Facebook (now Meta), he worked with top gaming companies across North America and Europe to scale platforms and partnerships. He later co-founded InfiniGods, serving as Chief Revenue Officer and pioneering blockchain-based gaming models, and also held senior roles at Microsoft. This mix of big tech know-how and startup execution gives him a distinctive perspective for transforming PCH into a mobile-first entertainment platform.
Patrick Fechtmeyer, CEO of ARB Interactive, said O’Donoghue’s appointment signals a clear shift: “His expertise in gaming and digital engagement aligns seamlessly with our mission to reimagine PCH as a leader in mobile-first, advertising-supported entertainment while honoring its iconic sweepstakes tradition.”
Prize Protection Program: Trust at the Core
The Prize Protection Program ensures that all future sweepstakes prizes are fully funded and protected. Large annuity prizes will be backed by investment-grade assets placed in FDIC-insured escrow accounts, managed by a bank-run investment vehicle. This approach means PCH winners can count on receiving every dollar they’ve won, regardless of the financial status of ARB or its subsidiaries.
“I’m thrilled to join Publishers Clearing House at this pivotal moment,” O’Donoghue said. “With the Prize Protection Program, we’re combining PCH’s iconic sweepstakes heritage with secure digital experiences, ensuring every winner is protected while introducing mobile-first gaming that excites and engages users nationwide.”
Blending Tradition with Modern Gaming
The appointment follows ARB Interactive’s $7.1 million court-approved acquisition of PCH assets from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. ARB plans to revitalize the 70-year-old sweepstakes brand by integrating PCH’s legacy with ARB’s flagship Modo Casino platform, expanding free-to-play games, and continuing the beloved Prize Patrol.
With more than 38 million authenticated users, PCH under O’Donoghue will leverage ARB Interactive’s technology to deliver transparent, compliant, and engaging digital gaming experiences. The goal is to create a mobile-first environment where sweepstakes excitement and modern gaming converge, while keeping consumer trust at the center.
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