Welcome to our ‘Meet the Experts’ series. In this article, we explore the evolving private capital landscape and examine how Centralis sets itself apart as a leading administrative services provider. While many firms in the sector are doubling down on technology and automation, Centralis is taking a different approach – one that prioritises people and provides the right blend of expertise, technology and service.
To provide deeper insight into this unique approach, we spoke with Gregorio Pupino, Head of European Fund Services, and Thomas Erichsen, Managing Director and EMEA Head of Alternatives Business Development. With decades of combined experience, both Gregorio and Thomas shed light on how Centralis is forging a reputation as the preferred global partner for private market managers.
A people-first approach to private capital administration
In a sector where efficiency and accuracy are paramount, many service providers focus on technology as the primary driver of service delivery. Centralis, however, sees things differently. While it has invested in cutting-edge technology, the company believes that the real differentiator lies in its people, expertise and high-touch client service.
“Our clients look at the accumulated expertise of Centralis, not just the technology,” said Gregorio. “They recognise that we have seen and handled these challenges before. We’re not just service providers; we’re partners in their growth.”
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, Centralis provides tailored, flexible and scalable solutions to meet the unique needs of each client. As Thomas put it, “Not everyone’s pain points will be the same, so Centralis remains flexible and adaptable. The more you listen, the more you discover what the client truly needs.”
Comprehensive services with a consultative edge
Centralis supports private market managers throughout their entire journey – from fund formation to compliance, administration and reporting. One thing that sets the company apart from its competitors is its co-sourcing model, which allows asset managers to maintain control of their data and operations without increasing their headcount.
With three core service verticals, Centralis provides clients with the flexibility to choose only the services they need – rather than being locked into bundled solutions. This is a stark contrast to some firms, where a rigid structure and one-size-fits-all approach often limits agility.
“We were once one of the industry’s best-kept secrets but now we are approaching the forefront, trusted by leading managers in the market.” said Thomas. “We have gained a lot of momentum as our approach is different . We think about private equity administration from a different angle – one that’s built on long-term relationships, not transactional engagements.”
This consultative mindset extends to how Centralis engages with clients. Unlike many firms where sales teams dominate discussions, Centralis prioritises listening. Every engagement starts with understanding the client’s unique pain points before recommending solutions, ensuring that each service is precisely tailored to their needs.
A culture that stands the test of growth
As Centralis continues to expand, maintaining a strong company culture is a key priority. Despite multiple acquisitions, the firm has successfully preserved its ethos of collaboration, trust and client-first service.
“The culture at Centralis is intact,” Thomas explained. “We are a team of like-minded professionals who uphold the same core values across the board. Clients notice this – it’s why they trust us and continue working with us.”
This level of trust has led to long-term relationships with private capital managers. Many clients begin working with Centralis on their first fund and remain with the firm as they scale, leveraging the Centralis team’s expertise and adaptable services.
Gregorio said: “Seeing a client’s growth trajectory and knowing they continue to choose us – whether for a specific strategy, asset class, or full-service support – shows the trust they place in us. The real reward in this business is when a client turns to you first and says, ‘What should we do next?’ That’s when you know they rely on you, not just as a service provider, but as a trusted partner. It’s about building that link of trust, being there through the ups and downs, and ensuring they feel supported at every stage of their journey.”
Why private market managers choose Centralis
At a time when many firms are pivoting toward tech-driven automation, Centralis remains steadfast in its belief that service and expertise are what truly differentiate an administrative partner.
While embracing cutting-edge technology and innovative tools to enhance efficiency, the firm’s true strength lies in its personal, client-first approach. By combining best-in-class digital solutions with a commitment to high-touch service, Centralis ensures that clients receive not just automated processes but tailored guidance and human insight.
With a highly experienced team, dedication to client success and a flexible service model, Centralis is redefining what it means to be a private capital administrator and building its reputation as being the best in the sector. As the company continues to grow, it remains committed to providing the agility, insight and personal touch that its clients have come to rely on.
For private capital managers looking for a trusted partner that understands their unique needs, Centralis is ready to help. Get in touch with our experts to find out how we can support your business.