CEO

What do you do at Global textware?

In 2012 I joined Global textware. A real family business, as I work in the company with my father and brother. I started to help out with the financials while I was studying for my Bachelor degree in accounting. When I finished in 2018 my side job grew to a fulltime job where I started to assist with sales activities. Then in 2020 after finishing my degree in business administration the initiated the transition to CEO. As CEO I’m learning all the trades of the business, and I’m starting to get more involved in the day-to-day affairs as well as the strategic side of the business.

What do you like about your work?

In the last couple of years I was able to use my knowledge I gained from my studies to help grow the company. What I like most is the interaction with my colleagues, but also with all the great people I’ve met so far in the industry at events. The last thing I think is important in a job is the chance to learn and grow as a person. This is something I’ve been able to do at Global textware since I first started.

What do you like to do on weekends?

I like to spend most of my free time with friends, play some videogames or sometimes have a beer and relax. Aside from all the fun and games, I try to train in the gym for at least three times a week to stay healthy. A few years back I also started with baseball, as I really missed the teambuilding and fun you have with a team.

Founder

What do you do at Global textware?
“In 1997, I started Global textware as a translation company specializing in software and IT that grew into an all-round and complete translation agency. I am now concentrating mainly on contacts with the outside world, such as clients, international relations and universities.”

What do you like about your work?
“Although running a business is a new challenge every day, I also know how to take advantage of the pleasures of entrepreneurship. Especially travelling to various congresses and conferences all over the world is not exactly an unpleasant side effect of my daily work. Nevertheless, I also enjoy the daily business at the office: working with different people on beautiful projects for satisfied customers.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In addition to the active existence of an entrepreneur, I am a qualified triathlon coach and regularly participate in triathlons and marathons myself.”

Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?

“I am the Project Manager of one of the biggest and several smaller clients of Global textware. Apart from that, I sometimes proofread jobs too.”

What do you like about your job?

“The best – and at the same time most challenging – parts of this job are the various work methods every client requires, since our clients have different demands and wishes. It is nice to have pleasant contact with freelancers and to be able to deliver a project that pleases the client.”

What do you like to do on weekends?

“I like to read books in my spare time. I also read through cooking and baking books, which often results in me making something tasty in my kitchen. Apart from that, I like to go exercise and enjoy the outdoors, but being inside and watching series and films in a variety of languages is also good entertainment!”

Translator

What do you do at Global textware?
“At Global textware I work as a Translator and Proofreader of translations from English to Dutch. In this job, I get to see texts in a variety of subjects.”

What do you like about your work?
“Some translations have to stay very close to the source text, while others have to deviate completely from the source text. The last variant is the biggest challenge but therefore also the most fun to do. In addition, I have also become all too familiar with the strict deadlines that are a standard occurence in this industry. It is a challenge to maintain a high level of quality in such cases.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“Working with language and playing with language are hobbies of mine anyway. I also like drumming and playing darts in my spare time. I also like to watch films and I like to attend all home matches of our football team FC Groningen”

What do you do at Global textware?

I am one of the Assistant Project Managers within the company. Currently, I support the project managers of team C by assigning tasks to extern translators and reviewers, placing files in the right folders and answering emails. Currently I am enrolled in the Bachelor program European Languages and Cultures at the University of Groningen. The degree includes translation courses, in which Global textware also plays a role by offering lectures and organizing company visits.

What do you like about your work?

Being an Assistant Project Manager makes it possible for me to combine my interests in linguistics and computer sciences. I constantly work with these two topics, which broadens my knowledge every day. It is really satisfying to apply and use my knowledge to make projects happen.

What do you like to do on weekends?

I am a real nerd when it comes to videogames, mainly fantasy single-player videogames such as Skyrim, Assassin’s Creed and The Witcher III. I also have a passion for illustrating and creating things, and that’s why I create my own costumes based on fantasy characters. It’s just plain cool to see something being created from the ground up and wearing it!

What do you do at Global Textware?

Being one of four Assistant Project Managers at Global Textware, I support team B wherever I can. I do this part-time, while also studying for a Master’s degree in Linguistics at the University of Groningen. My study background has me diving into languages and linguistics a lot, and I like how this allows me to make connections between my studies and my work as a project manager.

What do you like about your work?

It’s very dynamic: no day at work is the same as the one before. That’s what keeps it exciting! Working part-time as an Assistant Project Manager challenges me, and I’m given a lot of responsibility. Besides that, it’s a nice way to get familiar with the translation business while studying. So far, it’s proven to be even more versatile than I thought.

What do you like to do on the weekends?

About a year ago, I discovered that I enjoy running quite a lot. Unfortunately though, saying I’m not that fast would be an understatement. On the bright side: my slow pace does allow me to take time to take in the beautiful views of the places I like to run by. I also love playing the Sims (perhaps too much). But above all, there’s nothing I love more than spending a day or evening with my friends and family.

Assistant Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?

“The company has four assistant projectmanagers at work and each is part of another team. I’m assisting the projectmanagers of team A with their daily tasks. Team A is mainly concerned with translation jobs from English to Dutch. I’m also an English major student at the RUG, which means that my studies help me with my work here as well. Being an assistant projectmanager is a great way to work and learn at the same time.”

What do you like about your work?

“Since I’m really interested to work as a translator after I finish my studies, this job gives me the opportunity to gain hands on experience in the work field while still being a student. My function enables me to learn a lot about the processes involved with translations and this is very useful. The best part about being an assistent projectmanager is that I’m allowed to work on both linguistic activities as projectmanager activities.

What do you like to do on weekends?

“I’m a real bookworm and I always carry a book around. I never fail to find some time to read another chapter of my book. I prefer to read English books and my favourite genres are Fantasy and English classics. I also like to ride horses, I try to visit and ride the horse I care for as much as possible (which is not as much as I would want to). Besides that, I never refuse a fun evening with family or friends.”

Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?
“Being a Project Manager is probably not the first thing people think of when they hear I studied to be a Facility Manager, but the match is better than you’d think. I’ve always had an interest in project-based work/planning and organizing. During my studies, I worked at an organization within the Hanze University in Groningen, which offered help to students with the Dutch and English spelling, grammar and reporting skills. As Project Manager, I have the opportunity to carry out project-based work with a focus on language. For me, this is a challenge I like to accept daily.”

What do you like about your work?
“I gain a lot of satisfaction from working in a team and successfully meeting deadlines together. What I like most about this company is the togetherness. Me and my co-workers may be busy but we’re never too busy to help each other. We aim to provide quality together and good vibes contribute to that.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“When I was studying, I did a Minor in applied Psychology and I still like to delve into the books and teaching material of it. I encounter these matters on a daily basis and it’s fascinating to use this knowledge. In addition to that, I’m currently learning Spanish and I like to play video games with my boyfriend. I used to dance at a high level (hiphop), but nowadays I practice kickboxing. I like to read English books (mainly true crime) and try to eat out with friends as much as possible.”

Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?

“As a project manager at Global textware, you manage a translation project from start to finish; from scheduling the most suitable linguists to checking the quality of the translation”

What do you like about your work?

“It’s very varied work. For example, because of the many types of texts you will be confronted with, from medical leaflets to marketing texts. I also like interacting with a lot of different people from very different backgrounds.”

What do you like to do on weekends?

“I prefer to spend my free time with a good book. I also enjoy cooking good food and baking cakes. I also enjoy eating said cakes with my friends once they’re done!”

Marketing assistant

What do you do at Global textware?
“I am the marketing assistant at Global textware and as such am involved with the content creation for our website as well as other marketing-related tasks where my help is needed.”

What do you like about your work?
“I really like the fact that my work is quite varied and that I am involved in many different workflows and projects.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“My favourite thing to do during the weekends is to meet with a friend or grab a nice book and go to a cafe, where I drink a cup of coffee and just relax for a bit.”

Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?

“I work as a project manager, but I also translate into Frisian. I always like to compare my work to solving complex puzzles, a different one every day. You have to take into account the tight deadlines from clients, the schedules of the translators and solve problems wherever necessary.”

What do you like about your work?

“I love the fact that I’m in touch with many project managers and translators from all across the Netherlands and the world from diverse backgrounds. In addition, it is always a challenge to achieve the desired result for the customer, taking all factors into account. But once you’ve found the right way, every project you deliver successfully to the customer feels like small victory.”

What do you like to do on the weekends?

“Even in my spare time, I’m busy with languages. I’m currently learning Greek and I love to take a deep dive into the grammar and culture of the languages that I’m learning. And apparently there aren’t enough available languages, because I also love to work on my own ‘constructed language’. I’m also a massive fan of international music and drag and that’s why I review shows such as Eurovision and Drag Race on YouTube.”

Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?
“As a Project Manager, I manage large complex projects and answer complex questions from both clients and translators.”

What do you like about your work?
“What I like most about the work of a Project Manager is the variety of work and the contact with clients and translators.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time, I prefer to go out with my two children: have fun together after a busy week at work.”

Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?
“As a project manager, I have to constantly monitor incoming assignments, keep track of all ongoing projects and work well with all internal colleagues and external translators”

What do you like about your work?
“I like my job best when I can bring projects to a good end through good cooperation. In addition, it’s fun to work with language every day and to work together with so many different people”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time, I love gaming, reading comics and cartoons and watching animated films and series. I also like to draw myself.”

Project manager

What do you do at Global textware?
“As an intern at Global textware, I discovered how much fun it is to work at a translation agency. That’s why I started working as a translator at Global textware after my studies and now work as a project manager.”

What do you like about your work?
“Every day is a fun challenge to get all the pieces of the puzzle in place. Besides, there are nice colleagues I can learn a lot from.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time I enjoy dancing (jazz and modern ballet), reading and watching movies and series.”

Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?
“Since 2017, I have found my place at Global textware as a translator and project manager. Currently I’m mainly involved in managing projects for the medical sector.”

What do you like about your work?
“Delivering high-quality content to our clients, in close partnership with our freelancers, without fail.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time, I like to cook and read a good book. I also have my own garden greenhouse in which I grow various vegetables, such as peppers, peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers.”

Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?
“I am mainly involved in managing projects, but occasionally I also do linguistic tasks such as translating and proofreading.”

What do you like about your work?
“The many different things that come along in a day. Each project is different and the subjects of the translation are also very different from each other. That’s also the challenge of my job.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“I prefer to spend my free time swimming, reading or going to the movies with friends.”

Administration

What do you do at Global textware?
“I’m mainly concerned with billing. I make sure that all translations are invoiced. In addition, I do some small administrative tasks and support the office manager where necessary.”

What do you like about your work?
“I like the challenge of sorting out certain administrative matters. In addition, I like to have contact with our customers who are all over the world.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time I like to go shopping, work out, read, watch series and I like to work on my nails.”

Content Manager

What do you do at Global textware?
“As a Content Manager, I manage Global textware’s website and write texts for various media, such as the corporate website, marketing materials and internal communications.”

What do you like about your work?
“I really like to delve into a subject and write a clear and catchy text about it. That’s quite a challenge: it is not just writing a text aimlessly, you have to find the right words and tone.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“My favorite pastimes at the weekend are reading, listening to music and watching sports on TV. Every now and then I like putting on my own running shoes and go on a run.”

IT Specialist

What do you do at Global textware?
“After studying to be an application developer, I joined Global textware as an IT Specialist. Because of my experience with web development, PHP, Javascript, HTML and CSS, I at Global textware can make a good contribution to the development of our intranet and extranet”

What do you like about your work?
“By working on long-term projects, such as improvements to the intranet and extranet, while solving current problems, the work is always different and challenging”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“I like exploring websites like Wikipedia to accrue more knowledge and inspiration. I also love gaming and writing short science fiction and fantasy stories.”

Translator

What do you do at Global textware?
“After my studies, I joined Global textware as a translator and proof-reader of various types of software and technical texts.”

What do you like about your work?
“The best thing about my job is that while translating, you learn new things about the products at the same time and that even in the translations for one project there is a lot of variety. In addition, I have nice, warm-hearted colleagues.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time, I read a lot, especially fantasy books. I love a day out with friends, or watching a movie or amusing myself with a puzzle.”

Project Manager

What do you do at Global textware?
“I have mainly specialized in projects in the field of Life Sciences, but I also do other projects, from IT and Marketing to technical projects.”

What do you like about your work?
“You have to be quick on your feet, think ahead and keep a close eye on all the different factors. It makes me very happy when we receive enthusiastic feedback from customers about our translations and the cooperation.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time, I try to spend as much time as possible with my partner and three children. I also love listening to music, dancing, gardening and reading fashion and interior design blogs and science fiction books.”

Translator

What do you do at Global textware?
“I’ve been working at Global textware as a translator for quite some time now. I specialize in manuals and software for e.g. antivirus products and printers.”

What do you like about your work?
“I enjoy working with a team on a project and achieving the best possible translation. In doing so, it is a challenge to deliver the best product within the set frameworks.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“I prefer to spend my free time with my husband and daughters. I also do reading, watching series, walking, cycling, cooking and baking and I like doing crafts with my daughters.”

Office Manager

What do you do at Global textware?
“I make sure that all the ‘peripheral issues’ are taken care of, so that the other employees can do their job well. Additionally, using my can-do attitude, I take care of the administrative matters and part of the HRM cases.”

What do you like about your work?
“What I like most about working at Global textware is how free you are in choosing how you fill your position. As long as it is balanced and carried out correctly and on time. That is our demand for quality: deliver good work and meet the agreed deadline.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“On the weekend I love to watch the athletic performances of my husband and children on the football field. I also regularly schedule in a wellness day to recharge and get through the (sometimes exciting) weeks fit and happy.”

Translator

What do you do at Global textware?
“I’m a translator of mainly technical texts. In addition to translating, I look for technical solutions and answer all kinds of questions from colleagues”

What do you like about your work?
“I pride myself on being able to make difficult decisions that have positive effect in the long run.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time I like to play the guitar, draw, watch

Translator

Judith studied English Language and Literature and Medieval Studies and now works as a translator at Global textware. She translates texts and proofreads the work of colleagues and freelancers. What Judith likes about her work is the variety and the collaboration between colleagues. “Mutual discussions allow you to improve together.”

According to Judith, each individual text has its challenges; not just the translation itself, but having to allow for the client’s wishes and instructions. “Some texts must be translated quite literally, while for another text you have to let go of the source and be more liberal in your work. It continues to be a challenge to find the right balance so that everyone is eventually satisfied with the end result.”

She is proud of her work on long-term software localization projects, where it helps if you have a broad general background.

Outside her work at Global textware, Judith likes to watch movies, read, play video games and do fun things with friends. Her favorite genres are science fiction and fantasy.

Translator

What do you do at Global textware?
“I’ve been working at Global textware for “centuries”. As a translator, I enjoy working on marketing and gaming projects and I also have some telecom projects under my care.”

What do you like about your work?
“I see it as a challenge to present the complex and varied subjects we face in a language that’s easy to understand.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time, I like to play soccer, watch sports and movies and play games. And have the occasional nice German wheat beer with friends.”

Translator 

What do you do at Global textware?
“At Global textware, I am involved in translation and proofreading, as well as supervising translation trainees.”

What do you like about your work?
“Every type of text has a different challenge: software needs to be translated clearly and unambiguously, Help documentation needs to be clear but not patronizing, and marketing texts need to be recruiting and have the right tone.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“When I’m not at work, I like to read, cook, watch detectives and costume series and dance tango.”

Translator

What do you do at Global textware?
“Within Global textware I have specialized in translating texts for social network services and well-known (electronic and digital) consumer products. In addition, I am involved in editing and overseeing the quality of long-term projects.”

What do you like about your work?
“I especially like the linguistic aspects of my work, including the special translator’s humour. But also the fact that you learn something new about many things just by doing your job. I’m also proud of the way we’ve been able to get translations for and service to one large, well-known customer in California, who produces thousands of words every day, at a consistently high level.”

What do you like to do on weekends?
“In my spare time, I like to do sports, including running, cycling and fitness. If I’ve gotten too tired from doing all that, I like to sit down with a good book.”