At Translate.One, we believe that the heart of our company is our people. That’s why we’re excited to share our Meet the Team blog series, where we’ll be highlighting a different team member in each post!

In this fun and engaging series, we ask each team member 15 questions—from their favorite hobbies to the best advice they’ve ever received. It’s a lighthearted way to get to know the incredible individuals who help us deliver top-notch translation and localization services every day.

Next one on our list is our Systems Manager – IT & Quality, Alex Bean!

1. Alex, where are you located?

Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK.

2. How long have you been with the company?

A little over 14 years!

3. How long have you been working in the localization industry?

Also a little over 14 years! I started working with Enable2 in January 2011 as an apprentice. At the time we were a small NHS department delivering interpreting/translation services to local primary care services.

4. What does your role entail?

As Systems Manager for IT and Quality, I am responsible for developing, maintaining, and improving our proprietary systems that deliver interpreting and translation services, as well as assess potential new interpreters (mainly Magna and LingoAssess, and more recently QuickTrace). I manage the technical side of our interpreting operations, from building bespoke applications and integrating with third-party platforms like Twilio and Microsoft Teams, to ensuring our systems are secure, reliable, and scalable for both UK and international use. I also provide IT support where required to the Enable2 team, contribute to tender submissions by demonstrating our technical capabilities and compliance, and stay ahead of the ever-changing technology landscape to ensure Enable2 continues to innovate and grow. In summary, my role is a blend of hands-on technical work, system design, compliance management, and continuous improvement, always with a focus on delivering the best possible service for our customers.

5.What do you enjoy most about your role?

I feel very fortunate that a large part of my role is also something I enjoy as a hobby. I’ve always had a passion for working with computers and solving technical problems, so being able to apply that in a meaningful way — improving the way services are delivered and helping the organisation grow — is incredibly rewarding. I also enjoy the variety of the role, from hands-on development to supporting colleagues, contributing to strategic planning, and staying ahead of new technologies, no two days are ever the same. I particularly enjoy being able to innovate and develop solutions that make life easier for both our customers and internal teams. Much of the interpreting support we provide is for people receiving healthcare, which I imagine would be a daunting experience, especially when they don’t speak the language of the country they live in! It’s great to know that the systems I help create are making their lives easier and contributing to better outcomes.

6. Can you tell us about your educational background and how it contributed to where you are today?

After high school in 2010, I was studying for my A-levels. Whilst studying, a friend told me about an apprenticeship programme, allowing me learn whilst earning (the earning part was very attractive to 16 year old me!). I signed up and got an interview with the NHS Primary Care Interpreting Service in Bradford (who would shortly after go on to be known as Enable2). I was accepted and after completing my apprenticeship, I was offered a full-time role (thank you Liz Weatherill!). I’ve been here ever since in lots of different roles, continuing to learn, completing courses and furthering my education!

7. What’s your favorite activity or hobby outside of work?

I’ve already mentioned coding and working with computers as a hobby above, but I think my favourite has to be Football (or soccer for our US colleagues!). Unfortunately I was never quite good enough to do it for a living, but I still love playing 6-aside with friends and watching my team, Manchester United. Even if we are not very good anymore!

8. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

If I could have any superpower, I’d choose the ability to speak and understand every language instantly. Imagine travelling anywhere and connecting with anyone, no awkward phrasebooks or dodgy translations. It’d be like having a universal key to cultures, stories, and people. Plus, I could use it to make sure we would have a 100% fulfilment rate too!

9. What’s your favorite book, movie, or TV show?

Favourite book: 1984 by George Orwell. // Favourite movie: Interstellar // Favourite TV show: The Sopranos

10. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

There are so many places I would love to visit but have not had chance yet! Top 3 would be Machu Picchu in Peru, travel the Golden Circle in Iceland and a coast to coast road trip across the US.

11. What’s your proudest accomplishment (personal or professional)?

Professionally, my proudest achievement is creating v2 of Magna. An app that is now used by thousands of users! Personally, being a father to my two amazing daughters!

12. Do you have any pets? If so, tell us about them.

I have a little Sproodle (cross between English Springer Spaniel and a Poodle) called Lola. She is such a loving dog and is adored by my kids. The cat next door enjoys teasing her too by sitting on top of their fence. I also have a garden poi which is home to 8 fix (A mix of Koi, Orfe and Goldfish)

13. Do you have a favorite quote or mantra?

One thing at a time! A good reminder when life and/or work gets busy – just focus on what’s in front of you.

14. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

“I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work” is a quote from Thomas Edison that stuck with me during a coding course. The tutor used it to explain that things often don’t work the way you expect at first, and that’s exactly how you learn. Every mistake helps you understand the process better

15. Is there a cause or charity you are passionate about supporting?

British Heart Foundation.