Board Elections 2024 Candidate
Xavier Maza Cid
Chief Client Solutions Officer, iDISC Information Technologies, S.L. | Spain | LinkedIn
"GALA's mission matters because the decisions we make today shape the future we deserve. I want to contribute to this meaningful journey of transformation."
In your view, what are the most important challenges and opportunities facing GALA?
GALA, as the acronym for the Globalization and Localization Association, is made up of companies worldwide but, more specifically, of energetic and motivated individuals who come from the largest super-agencies, the latest tech companies, as well as many long-standing, trained, and seasoned professionals from smaller agencies. Our industry now stands on the brink of major transformation due to AI disruption, compounded by the economic downturn after the pandemic, geopolitical turmoil, wars, and a real shift in purchasing habits and expectations.
The real challenge—and opportunity—for GALA lies in how we, as humans, steer this change. Machines are tools, not the drivers of innovation. It is human ingenuity, our survival instinct, and our relentless pursuit of excellence that will push the transition of our industry from one business model to the next—because there will be a next one. We need to be there to shape it.
GALA’s role must be that of a central hub, guiding and supporting its members through this transformation. We need to foster an environment of connection, collaboration, and forward-thinking where the entire community—whether individuals, small businesses, or global enterprises—can shape the future of our industry. This transition will require us to do more with the resources we have at hand, to push further, and grow stronger, leveraging both AI and human talent to deliver the highest levels of service.
GALA’s opportunity lies in being the facilitator of this shift—helping members adapt and thrive while staying true to the core values of human-driven excellence.
How have you engaged with GALA as a member?
I've been deeply involved with GALA since its early days, serving as a board member over 10 years ago. My engagement focused on driving collaboration and innovation within the industry, and now I’m ready to help GALA and its members rethink, reinvent, and thrive in this evolving landscape.
Besides your work with GALA, how do you engage with our industry (associations, conferences, speaking, publishing, community events, etc.)?
As Chief Client Solutions Officer and partner at iDISC, I stay deeply connected to the localization community, constantly tracking industry trends and innovations. This engagement helps me drive success and foster innovation for our members in an ever-changing landscape. Beyond GALA, I’ve connected with various associations and events, both inside and outside the industry. I regularly attend key events, host and speak at sessions, and contribute through articles and online collaborations.
What superpowers can you bring to board service? Describe previous board experience, leadership training, or strategic leadership you’ve had.
I can see where the industry is heading because I’ve seen where it’s been. I won’t claim to predict the future, but the old “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it” mindset no longer works—we’ll need to change, and fast. We need to dive into uncharted waters. As a scuba diver, I’m used to navigating the unknown, and I’ll bring that mindset to GALA to help us push boundaries and lead the way forward.
Which segment(s) of GALA's membership do you represent? What perspective will you bring?
I represent the core of GALA’s membership—medium-sized companies led by skilled professionals dedicated to quality. My focus is on how we can not just adapt but thrive in the new paradigm, using today’s tools and technologies to deliver solutions that are both innovative and fit for purpose.