EGARA - Executive Gaming and Risk Advisory

Service Portfolio

EGARA positions itself as a boutique consultancy that combines deep regulatory expertise with a pragmatic, execution-focused approach. Its service portfolio is built around five pillars: Licensing & Compliance (strategy, application support, and ongoing compliance management for operators and suppliers entering or expanding in regulated markets), Risk Advisory (governance strengthening, regulatory issue resolution, and risk-aware compliance frameworks), M&A Due Diligence (pre-deal assessments and post-merger integration support for gaming transactions), Government Affairs (engagement with regulators and policymakers to shape favourable regulatory outcomes), and Automation Solutions (cutting-edge compliance automation tools designed to reduce manual workload and increase accuracy). In April 2025, EGARA announced a partnership with CityMaaS to launch the gambling industry’s first accessibility toolkit, developed ahead of a June 2025 compliance deadline—demonstrating the firm’s ability to create practical, time-sensitive solutions that reduce legal and reputational risk.

Leadership and Background

The firm’s leadership draws on extensive prior roles: Valentina Franch built her career at KPMG Malta in advisory and compliance, while Jessica Maier held senior compliance and executive positions across the gaming sector before founding EGARA. The firm has not disclosed its founding year publicly, but its operational timeframe appears to span several years; LinkedIn and industry sources indicate an established presence in the European and EMEA regulatory community. EGARA is a privately held, independent consultancy with a headcount of 2–10 employees, allowing for direct, senior-level engagement with every client. Its client base includes licensed operators, B2B suppliers, private equity investors, and law firms requiring specialist gambling regulatory advice.

Industry Recognition and Reach

Notable industry recognition includes Jessica Maier’s role as Co-Chair of the EMEA Engagement Committee of the International Association of Gaming Advisors (IAGA), reflecting EGARA’s influence in shaping regulatory discourse. The firm regularly publishes insights and commentary on evolving regulations such as mandatory B2B licensing in Curaçao and Anjouan, and it is listed on iGamingSuppliers.com as a verified vendor. While the company operates primarily from Malta, its advisory scope is global, with a focus on European, African, and emerging markets. EGARA does not publicly disclose revenue or investment details, consistent with its private advisory business model.