Assoc. Director, Language Management

PURPOSE

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 is entrusted with building high-performing teams of in-house linguists, driving innovation, and forging 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 LM 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, ensuring 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 LM 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.

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights, and healthcare intelligence to the life sciences and healthcare industries. We create intelligent connections to accelerate the development and commercialization of innovative medical treatments to help improve patient outcomes and population health worldwide. Learn more at https://jobs.iqvia.com.

At IQVIA, we believe that diversity, inclusion, and belonging empower our mission to accelerate innovation for a healthier world. We create a culture of belonging by valuing the perspectives of all talented employees worldwide and providing them with the opportunity to power smarter healthcare for everyone, everywhere. When our talented employees bring their authentic selves and their diverse experiences to work, they enable us to accomplish extraordinary things. Multifaceted thought processes spark innovation. Multi-talented collaboration harnesses innovation to deliver superior outcomes.

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