Sean Ostrow is the new Managing Director of the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance. He comes from Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, where he worked as a multi-state contract attorney and strategist.
His background includes leading policy work for Major League Baseball and the NBA. Before that, he managed government affairs at FanDuel, helping pass fantasy sports laws across multiple states. So he knows how to move gambling legislation forward.
SGLA Executive Director Jeff Duncan praised the hire. “Sean brings a rare combination of deep policy expertise and on-the-ground advocacy experience,” Duncan said.
Why This Hire Matters for Social Gaming
Ostrow spent a decade working on fantasy sports, sports betting, and iGaming regulations nationwide. That experience matters now because social gaming faces increasing scrutiny from state lawmakers.
“Social gaming has been misunderstood for too long,” Ostrow said. He believes it’s time for the industry’s “story to be told fairly.”
The sector uses sweepstakes promotions as marketing tools. Ostrow calls this “an innovative and legally sound approach that emphasises casual entertainment” while providing consumer protections.
But it’s under pressure. Some states question whether these games need stricter oversight or new regulations entirely.
What Ostrow Will Handle in His New Role
He’ll run the SGLA’s lobbying and public policy work. This means meeting with legislators, regulators and other stakeholders. The goal is ensuring online social games with sweepstakes promotions can “thrive responsibly.”
“The demand for online social gaming and entertainment gaming is tremendous,” Ostrow said. The SGLA wants “more clearly codified regulation” so adults can enjoy these games safely.
They’re working with state officials to set high standards. Good actors should be able to operate social games and sweepstakes promotions. States should benefit financially through “sensible, modern regulation and taxation frameworks.”
The Social and Promotional Games Association started consolidating efforts with the SGLA on September 16, according to Gaming America. That merger strengthens the trade group’s position.
How This Shapes Social Gaming’s Future
The SGLA hosted its first Online Social Games Expo on October 2. Speakers included Duncan, Yellow Social Interactive Director Paul Foster, and Derek Brinkman from Virtual Gaming Worlds. The event signals the group is getting more active.
Ostrow’s hiring strengthens the leadership team during a critical period. His coalition-building skills could help navigate complex state-by-state legislative fights.
The group says this move advances its focus on responsible innovation, consumer protection and appropriate oversight. Translation: they’re preparing for tougher regulatory battles ahead.
His FanDuel experience shows he can work both sides. He knows how operators think and what regulators want. That’s valuable when social gaming needs friends in state capitals.
