Language Lead

• Manage a team of Transcreation Account Managers and linguists to ensure an efficient localization set-up to produce high-quality output
• Lead by example, to build an inclusive team culture, where collaboration, fresh thinking, a can-do attitude and the company values are embedded within the team DNA
• Review team requirements on an ongoing basis and, with the help of data, ensure the client is serviced appropriately whilst maintaining agreed profitability
• Inspire and empower, ensuring work is effectively delegated and individuals take full ownership and responsibility for their projects
• Identify and lead any Language recruitment requirements
• Plan and coordinate training/onboarding for incoming and existing teams
• Ensure the team are well utilized and performing to the high standard
• Successfully establish a trusted and strong partnership with key clients, and with senior management
• Possess a strong understanding of and consistently deliver against all contractual obligations, commercial arrangements, KPIs and SLAs with our client
• Build strong internal relationships across the company and ensure successful collaboration of the Language team with other functions – essential to the company’s success
• Remove barriers and find solutions to meet client needs. Communicate clearly with clients on recommendations and solutions as part of planning, briefing and review sessions
• Excellence in operational planning and execution
• Deep understanding of Language project workflows and processes
• Confidentially provide recommendations using knowledge, experience and data-driven insights
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the company's business model, services and technology
• Ensure Business Director and Global SME informed on all matters relating to Language
• Continuously work on development and implementation of process improvements
• Work with global Language SME to enhance process/tools and implement efficiency initiatives
• Work closely with global counterparts to share best practices
• Understanding of Language technology and the ability to apply to our clients’ needs
• Overall responsibility for the Transcreation Account Managers and linguists to ensure an efficient localization set-up to produce high-quality output
• Identify and lead any Language recruitment requirements
• Plan and coordinate training/onboarding for incoming and existing teams
• Conduct and manage performance appraisals for direct reports
• Assist with one-to-one management / mentoring
• Able to create and maintain strong relationships with freelance talent – talent engagement via newsletters, orientation decks, regular check-ins
• Review team structure and resource on an ongoing basis, and with the help of data, to ensure client is serviced appropriately whilst maintaining agreed profitability
• Ensure the team are well utilized and performing to the high standard
• Point of escalation for the internal teams
• Contribute to quarterly budget planning, re-forecasting, reconciliation and analysis
• Monitor budget utilization across teams and flag issues to key stakeholders
• Manage resourcing across teams by monitoring data-led utilization and productivity
• Report regularly on linguistic team performances and productivity
• Ensure full compliance with all financial procedures and policies
• Manage and maintain a continual focus on cost and revenue
• Lead and deliver regular business reviews to Director level (and above)

• Proven experience in a lead client servicing role with deep understanding of language processes, transcreation and localization, preferably from a linguistic or creative background
• Experience in budgeting and forecasting
• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal, including confidence in presenting and storytelling to drive change and improvement
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment, ideally from the Language or creative industry, whilst keeping a keen eye for detail
• Focus on continuous improvements, delivering excellent quality and high levels of customer service
• Agency experience managing international clients in multiple markets with multiple stakeholders
• Experience of running an account team including resource planning
• People management experience
• High level of organization and attention to detail
• Fluent written and spoken English – a second language is preferred but not a must
• Aligned to our values
• Must be able to travel as required

A second language is preferred but not a must

• You’ll help shape the future of content production at a truly global scale
• You’ll work in a collaborative, borderless environment where craft excellence is valued, innovation is encouraged, and AI and next-generation tools are used to amplify not replace human creativity
• With access to diverse projects, global career opportunities, and the backing of WPP’s unmatched network, this is a place where you can grow your skills, make real impact, and create work that performs for every audience, across every channel, at every moment
• We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers