By: Maria Williams
In February 2024, a remarkable journey culminated in Jin Lee’s appointment as Co- CEO of a billion-dollar language services, translation, and legal services company, TransPerfect. But Lee’s ascent to the C-suite wasn’t conventional, nor did it involve headhunting from rival firms. Instead, it’s a narrative steeped in grit, determination, and the embodiment of his parents’ American Dream.
Lee’s parents, first-generation Korean-Americans, immigrated to the United States in pursuit of opportunity, leaving behind humble beginnings to carve out a better future. Their sacrifices laid the foundation for Lee’s relentless pursuit of success, instilling in him a deep appreciation for hard work and perseverance.
“My parents sacrificed immensely to pursue the American Dream,” reflects Lee. “My father’s journey, from factory worker to success, serves as a constant source of inspiration for me.”
For over two decades, Lee has been integral to TransPerfect, the world’s foremost provider of language services and technology for global enterprises. Starting as a project coordinator, Lee traversed multiple offices worldwide, overseeing diverse projects and teams. It was here that he discovered his true passion: leadership.
Under the mentorship of TransPerfect founder Phil Shawe, Lee honed his leadership skills, imbibing the company’s entrepreneurial ethos and fostering a culture of mentorship. “Phil Shawe coached us to instill TransPerfect’s entrepreneurial spirit,” shares Lee, emphasizing Shawe’s role in shaping future leaders.
At TransPerfect, innovation is synonymous with survival. With a global footprint spanning 140 cities across six continents, the company champions linguistic expertise and technological innovation. “We provide global services with a local touch,” affirms Lee, underscoring TransPerfect’s mission to streamline global business operations.
As Co-CEO, Lee’s vision is clear: to enhance TransPerfect’s impact on both clients and employees. “Our goal is to attract and retain top talent, offer unparalleled training, and operate within a secure IT infrastructure,” he states. Beyond organizational objectives lies a commitment to fostering innovation, nurturing client relationships, and driving transformative change.
TransPerfect’s reach extends far and wide, touching virtually every industry, from airlines to legal services. Recently named the top legal service provider for Australia and New Zealand in 2023, the company’s accolades speak volumes about its unwavering commitment to excellence.
Looking ahead, Lee envisions a future where TransPerfect continues to take charge of leveraging technology for business success. “We embrace technological advancements,” he asserts, highlighting the company’s agility in adapting to evolving landscapes.
Despite his pivotal role in shaping TransPerfect’s future, Lee’s proudest achievement remains the growth of the Seoul office, a testament to his roots and values instilled by his parents. “Leading TransPerfect feels like fulfilling my father’s dream,” he reflects. “Our company embodies meritocracy, where hard work propels individuals to new heights.”
As a first-generation Korean-American, Lee hopes his journey inspires others to chase their dreams. “I’m proud to represent a thriving community,” he affirms, underscoring the importance of resilience and perseverance in achieving success.
In the tapestry of TransPerfect’s success story, Jin Lee’s ascent from project coordinator to co-CEO stands as a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and pursuing one’s dreams.
Published by: Khy Talara
