Assoc. Director, Language Management

Overview

The Associate Director of Language Management at IQVIA Language Solutions is dedicated to ensuring patient well-being and safety through exceptional translation and localization services. Reporting to the Director of Talent and Language Management, this position builds high-performing teams of in-house linguists, drives innovation, and forges strategic partnerships that enhance collaborative success across the organization. The incumbent will manage a team of Language Managers and linguists, directly overseeing a group ranging from 40 to 60 reports, and will serve as a key architect in advancing IQVIA’s position as a leader in life science translations.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning & Innovation: Develop and execute a forward-thinking Language Management strategy aligned with organizational goals, driving continuous improvement and innovation in language services.
• Identify, design, and implement new roles, workflows, and technology-driven initiatives to advance operational efficiency and quality.
• Champion and deliver on language-specific initiatives that align with business priorities.
• Monitor market trends and leverage advanced technology solutions, including AI/LLMs and TMS platforms, to strengthen the Language Management function.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Partnerships: Build and maintain strong cross-functional relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including Talent Management, Quality, Delivery, Sales and client teams.
• Lead and participate in strategic initiatives and partnership projects to enhance organizational collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Drive the development of best practices and process improvements across teams applying Lean principles.
• Team Leadership & Coaching: Directly manage, mentor, and develop a team of Language Managers and linguists, fostering a culture of high performance, accountability, and professional growth.
• Coach Language Managers on leadership skills, communication, and pipeline development to ensure succession planning and long-term team strength.
• Conduct performance appraisals, set clear objectives, and support training and development plans for direct reports.
• Operational Excellence & Delivery Management: Oversee and continuously improve hiring processes to reduce time-to-fill and ensure optimal team composition; set and monitor delivery goals, KPIs, and quality standards to ensure on-time and within-budget project completion; advocate for and drive improvements in quality performance, resource utilization, and language-oriented delivery outcomes; ensure compliance with all relevant SOPs, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitate clear and effective communication between Language Management teams and clients, ensuring alignment on project objectives and expectations; represent Language Management in cross-team, client, and executive-level forums; coach Language Managers to lead effective client communications and promote a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach; prepare and present reports on linguist performance, cost management, and other key metrics to senior management.

Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• At least 5 years’ experience as a Director managing large teams (40–60 reports) in language services, localization, or related industries.
• Proven expertise in leading cross-functional initiatives, strategic planning, and innovation within language management.
• Strong ability to coach, mentor, and build effective leadership pipelines.
• Exceptional communication skills, including facilitating collaboration and coaching teams.
• Demonstrated financial acumen and experience achieving delivery performance goals.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills; proficient in Excel and Power BI.
• Familiarity with TMS, AI/LLMs, and other language industry technologies.
• Experience with APAC and Japan teams is a plus.

Minimum Required Education And Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Translation, Linguistics, Business, Life Sciences, or a related field.
• Proficiency with Office applications (Outlook, Excel, Word, etc.).

Physical Requirements

• Extensive use of keyboard requiring repetitive motion of fingers.
• Extensive use of telephone and face-to-face communication requiring accurate perception of speech.
• Regular sitting for extended periods.