Board Elections 2024 Candidate
Jose Palomares
Director, Localization, Coupa Software | United States | LinkedIn
"I believe GALA's transparency, diversity, and rigor make it the perfect source for acquiring the unbiased information and connections necessary to thrive in our space."
In your view, what are the most important challenges and opportunities facing GALA?
Change is the only constant in our complex field. Whether you're a localization manager, an LSP, an interpreting agency, or a language technology company, we all serve a diverse audience through ever-changing business conditions. Every macro trend deeply impacts our business, and we adapt. However, with the advent of AI and large language models, we are facing a non-linear transformation. Our current business and service models can be rendered obsolete overnight as new technologies and services suddenly perform—or are perceived to perform—at acceptable levels for a fraction of the cost, speed, and complexity.
GALA's biggest challenge is to adapt swiftly to this rapidly changing landscape. Yet, within this challenge lies a tremendous opportunity: to redefine our role and perception in the global market. We can evolve beyond being seen solely as "language people" to being recognized as "business enablers" and "international growth drivers." By embracing innovation and fostering collaboration like never before, GALA can empower its members to evolve rather than just survive.
As an association, we must transcend being merely a meeting place. We need to become the gold standard—a dynamic community where leaders and their teams can learn, collaborate, and gather actionable intelligence. This will help us stay relevant and competitive in a rapidly changing era.
By leading this transformation, GALA can not only adapt but thrive, setting the pace for our industry's evolution and ensuring we continue to add value in a world reshaped by AI and technological innovation.
How have you engaged with GALA as a member?
I currently serve as Vice-chair of the Board. I have presented at our annual conference, led and participated in expert panels and webinars, served on the Program Committee, attended GALA Academy, joined special interest groups, and liaised between GALA and other collectives. I help members with anything I can.
Besides your work with GALA, how do you engage with our industry (associations, conferences, speaking, publishing, community events, etc.)?
I am a frequent speaker and moderator at other conferences and organizations, such as LocWorld, TAUS, SlatorCon, and IMUG, on topics ranging from AI and language technology to enterprise business processes, strategy, and best practices. I am also an active member and mentor of Women in Localization, a member of the GILT Leaders Forum, a guest lecturer at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, and a LocLunch ambassador for the San Francisco Bay Area.
What superpowers can you bring to board service? Describe previous board experience, leadership training, or strategic leadership you’ve had.
My superpowers are drive and optimism.
Which segment(s) of GALA's membership do you represent? What perspective will you bring?
I have been a buyer, an LSP, and a technology provider, and throughout my time on the GALA board, it's become more evident than ever before that we not only must bring those groups closer but also extend our reach to new and adjacent segments. We must evolve and grow.