In this series of interviews, GALA members share their insights on the pursuit of globalization & localization brilliance.
Today’s GALA Champion is: Cecilia Iros,CEO at SumaLatam
What’s in a job title?
I’m mainly in charge of working with current clients and prospects to tailor the best solution for each one of them based on languages, formats, multimedia needs, time, quality expectations, and any specific details that matter to them.
Starting out in localization
That was many years ago when I got my Translation Diploma at the National University of Cordoba, in Argentina. At the time, all I knew was that I wanted to translate and nothing else but I also understood that I needed to continue learning. With that in mind, I cofounded my first LSP and started organizing industry events. It was a great way to get all the training I needed and, as I soon discovered, the best way to network with everyone in our global industry! I performed all the different roles in a translation and localization company, ranging from translation, editing, and review, to project management, vendor management, and business development. Soon, our translation company was leading the industry in this region. Years later, I co-founded my second LSP with a solid team, offering more than 20 languages, and about a dozen different services on top of translation.
Where GALA fits in
I’ve always believed in sharing and that’s what I’ve found in GALA. It’s where I can learn about everything that’s going on in our industry, what the trends are, and it gives me the chance of just casually chatting to literally anyone in localization just by mentioning I represent a GALA member company. GALA organizes the best events where all details are taken care of, and with the nicest team always making you feel welcome and heard.
The annual conference is the best! Three full days for you to focus on having the most stimulating conversations, knowing that every detail is taken care of, at the best venues, with the most fun social activities! Definitely my favorite!
However, webinars are awesome, too! They are THE way to keep up to date with everything related to localization, technology, and trends throughout the year.
Accomplishments
I feel that I’ve done my bit in helping our industry grow in our region. I’d say that’s something I’m proud of. On a personal level, making a living out of a career no one saw as promising two decades ago, feels great too! People would complete translation programs but end up teaching English as a second language instead. Nothing wrong with it, but I’m glad I was stubborn enough and did everything I could think of in order to work in translation. At the time, I wasn’t sure where this would take me but I’m thankful for having been that passionate about my future.
Networking tips & techniques
Listen carefully trying to find how you can help even if it doesn’t bring you any obvious benefit.
Something I learned last year…
That I’m blessed to have a job that will take me to so many places but that I can continue to do even if I have to stay put for a year!
Finding inspiration
Life itself! My friends, a book, a TV show, anything can bring inspiration if you’re open to it.
My Brilliant Second Career
If I didn’t work in the language industry (and money wasn’t a factor), …I’ve thought about it many times and I really can’t think of anything else!
