Meet Our Team
CEO
Prior to founding Capintro Partners, Mr Al-Khawaja started and managed the Middle East division of Asset Alliance Corporation, from 2004 – 2007. During this time, he was active in the multi-manager, single manager and structured products businesses within the firm focusing on the institutional and high net worth market in the GCC and greater Levant region. Prior to Asset Alliance, Mr. Al-Khawaja was a member of various Middle Eastern teams at select investment banks (including Lehman Brothers) where he developed relationships with institutional clients, servicing their needs for both traditional portfolios and alternative investments. Mr. Al-Khawaja has a BSC in Economics & Finance with a minor in Computer Information Systems and a Master’s of Science in Finance from Bentley University, Waltham, MA. Mr. Al-Khawaja achieved his Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designation in 2015. Mr. Al-Khawaja is an Independent Board of Directors member at Sancta Capital and also serves as an Investment Committee member at a large Middle Eastern family office.
Managing Director
Prior to Capintro Partners, Ltd. Mr. Crystal was Head of Middle East Distribution at Neuberger Berman where he was instrumental in growing the Neuberger Berman franchise throughout the GCC. Prior to that, Mr. Crystal led Middle East Distribution at Lehman Brothers and developed Lehman’s business across the region. Mr. Crystal’s relationship with the Middle East started in 1985 as a senior investment professional at Morgan Stanley. Mr. Crystal’s track record in sales spans both conventional and alternative investment products. Mr. Crystal holds a BA in Economics from Colgate University and an MBA in Finance and Marketing from the American University.
Chief Financial Officer
Prior to joining Capintro Partners, Ltd. Mr. Ahmed worked at a number of regional investment banks within product development and private banking. Mr. Ahmed is very well versed in investment management strategies across asset classes as well as investor appetite. Mr. Ahmed has extensive knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards and GCC regional regulatory requirements. He is also a Certified Public Accountant. Mr. Ahmed holds a Bachelor of Science in Business and Finance from Lafayette College in the US.
Head of Compliance
With over a decade of experience in Regulatory Compliance and Financial Crimes Risk within the financial services industry, accredited by the Securities and Commodities Authority (UAE), Ms. Abdalla has held a senior compliance roles across banking, insurance, and wealth management sectors, bringing a wealth of expertise in managing and mitigating regulatory and financial crime risks. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Translation Studies from UAE University. Ms. Abdalla is also Certified as an Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS), Compliance Professional (CCP), and Risk Management Specialist in Targeted Financial Sanctions (UAE), and holds the CISI Level 3 Award in Combating Financial Crime.
Vice President – Financial Promotion
With over five years of experience at Capintro Partners, Waqas has consistently excelled in promoting financial products and raising capital. His expertise spans financial products and investment roles, underscored by a comprehensive understanding of the investment and finance industry. Waqas has a proven track record in developing and executing business strategies within fund promotion, private equity, key account management, and facilitating value-generating partnerships for both clients and companies. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Preston Institute of Management Science & Technology.
Administrative Officer
Prior to joining Capintro, Ms. Palacielo gained seven years of experience across various industries. She previously worked as an Accounting Assistant at one of the largest banks in the Philippines and later as a Relationship Sales Associate in a locally owned coffee company in the UAE. At Capintro, she is responsible for overseeing all administrative functions of the company. Ms. Palacielo holds a Bachelor's degree in Financial Management from Saint Louis University, Philippines.