Insights

Riding the momentum: Squircle Capital announces fresh appointments in its Legal and Fund Administration teams

As we near the close of a busy year, marked by global expansion and significant team growth, Squircle Capital’s strategic focus remains firmly fixed on the future. To maintain this exciting momentum into the new year, we are pleased to announce two key appointments: Morgan Pacalin joins us as Director of Fund Administration, and Joanna Mascherin steps into the role of Senior Associate in our legal team.

Morgan brings a wealth of expertise to the Squircle Capital team, grounded in extensive experience spanning fund management, financial control, and audit. He joins the firm following six years at Castik Capital, where he played a critical role in managing investment structures, overseeing complex financial tax reporting, and providing crucial insight through participation in investment committee discussions on new deals. Earlier in his career, Morgan honed his skills in fund and real estate audits at PwC Luxembourg and gained valuable experience at Cube Infrastructure Managers.

Meanwhile, Joanna brings over six years of focused expertise in investment funds and corporate law to the team. Previously a Senior Associate at Linari Law Firm in Luxembourg, Joanna played a key role in structuring and launching alternative investment funds, guiding clients through the full fund life cycle, and coordinating essential regulatory communications with the CSSF.

Both Morgan’s deep background in financial governance and Joanna’s extensive legal expertise will be integral to strengthening our operational excellence as Squircle Capital continues to grow.

In conversation with…

In this Q&A, we dive into the experiences of both Joanna and Morgan during their professional careers and their decision to join Squircle Capital.

What drew you to your respective fields of work initially?

Joanna: I’ve always been drawn to activities that involve problem-solving and deep analysis. That interest, added with early exposure to the engaging representation of lawyers in popular culture, initially led me to study law. During my university years, I discovered the business side of the legal world, which opened extensive opportunities to learn and innovate. What I found most compelling was realising the impact of these transactions, which could reshape companies and influence market dynamics. It felt exciting to see that I could work in such a broad and impactful environment.

Morgan: I was drawn to fund administration because it sits at the intersection of financial analysis, governance, and strategic decision-making. Early in my career, I enjoyed the analytical rigour of fund accounting and audit work, but I quickly realised that the broader oversight of investment structures– like ensuring they run smoothly, transparently, and in full compliance– was where I could create the most value. The ability to support investment teams with clear financial insights and reliable processes is what motivated me to build my career in this field.

What aspects of your new role at Squircle Capital do you find most exciting?

Morgan: What I find most compelling about joining Squircle Capital is the opportunity to contribute to a growing organisation at a strategically important time. The firm’s ambitions and forward-looking approach provide a stimulating environment in which to apply my experience and to support the development of efficient, scalable processes. Being closely involved in the organisation’s financial backbone while collaborating with talented colleagues across teams is particularly motivating.

Joanna: What I find most engaging is being at the heart of transactions in niche sectors, where high-end assets hold exceptional potential for growth and transformation. I am motivated by the opportunity to support the value-creation process and help implement strategies. This role is both rewarding and intellectually stimulating, driving me to continuously broaden my expertise, adapt quickly, and uphold the high standards this industry demands. For me, this role represents a unique chance to combine my technical legal skills with strategic insight.

In your experience, what role does a strong legal or fund administration role play in the overall success of a firm?

Joanna: The legal department is often viewed as a safeguard, ensuring transactions are sound and risks are managed. But its true potential extends far beyond compliance. A dynamic, innovative legal team becomes a strategic partner, structuring deals more effectively, securing stronger terms, and accelerating execution. This not only contributes to but also amplifies the value created by the investment team. When legal teams build strong collaboration with other departments, they move from a support function to a catalyst for success. By anticipating challenges, delivering creative solutions and aligning legal strategies with business goals, the legal team drives growth and competitive advantage. This approach reflects the kind of environment I was looking for and ultimately why I chose to join SQC.

Morgan: A strong fund administration function is fundamental to a firm’s long-term success. It ensures that the investment engine runs reliably through accurate reporting, disciplined processes, and transparent communication with stakeholders. Good administration provides decision-makers with reliable information, reduces operational risk, and builds trust with investors and regulators. When these elements are in place, investment teams are able to focus fully on generating value, knowing that the underlying structures of the organisation are managed with diligence and precision