Vanaskie joined the group in April 2015 and since then has worked on various projects, ranging from an operator’s preliminary gaming licence bid to a feasibility study for a hotel expansion in Southern California.

TIG said Vanaskie has proven “instrumental” to the firm’s research services, and that he has developed a reputation “for creating customised instruments for clients.” Consequently, the high esteem in which he seems to be held likely explains his promotion.

In Vanaskie’s new role, he will “maintain the firm’s core business in feasibility studies and financial analysis” while driving it into “the next phase of the development process.”

Furthermore, Vanaskie’s international development portfolio will expand to include Latin America and Europe, building on recent successes in the Caribbean.

“Mike’s commitment to The Innovation Group and his areas of coverage fit perfectly into the future trajectory of the company’s feasibility and development business,” said TIG President Michael Soll.

“Thanks to Mike’s ingenuity, we have developed custom approaches to modelling and forecasting for our clients with the most unique and entrepreneurial spirits.”

Before his recent promotion to SVP and Partner, Vanaskie served as TIG’s Vice President of International Development.

Prior to joining the firm, he primarily worked in the investment management industry, where he held various research-oriented roles.

Vanaskie graduated summa cum laude from Washington College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and a minor in Justice, Law and Society.