Assoc. Director, Language Management
IQVIA
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.