Localization Program Manager

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced and technically minded Localization Program Manager (LPM) to design, establish, and scale an end-to-end global localization operation. In this role, you will own the operational framework, TMS architecture, vendor execution, and cross-functional alignment necessary to launch new international markets seamlessly. You will serve as the primary bridge between Product, Engineering, Design, Legal/Compliance, and external linguistic partners, ensuring the product and content scale globally without increasing operational drag or costs. The ideal candidate possesses deep hands-on expertise with CrowdIn Enterprise, direct experience configuring continuous localization (CI/CD) pipelines, and a strong background in defining governance models, SLAs, and terminology strategies in fast-moving product environments. Key Responsibilities - Program Strategy & Governance - Establish the overarching localization operating model, including program intake, prioritization frameworks, RACI matrices, SLAs, and escalation pathways. - Define and track key program performance indicators (KPIs) covering turnaround times, quality scores, cost efficiency, and release gate readiness. - Author and maintain reusable market-launch playbooks to streamline entry into subsequent target regions post-launch.

1. Technical Infrastructure & CrowdIn Operations

- Own the setup, project architecture, permission levels, and configuration of CrowdIn / CrowdIn Enterprise. - Partner with Solutions Architects, Localization Engineers, and DevOps to configure file parsers, API endpoints, webhooks, and direct repository/CI-CD integrations (e.g., GitHub, GitLab, Figma). - Set up automated QA rules, pre-translation workflows, pseudo-localization testing, and machine translation (MT) engine integrations within CrowdIn.

1. Linguistic & Asset Management

- Oversee the lifecycle of core linguistic assets, including translation memories (TM), glossaries, style guides, and terminology databases. - Partner with Linguistic Leads and product teams to enforce internationalization (i18n) standards and string-externalization best practices. - Coordinate in-context reviews (LQA), functional testing, and sign-offs for regulated or domain-specific content (e.g., fintech, legal, compliance).

1. Cross-Functional Alignment & Vendor Management

- Collaborate with Product Managers, Content Strategists, Design Leads, and Engineering to build localization into the core software delivery lifecycle. - Build, negotiate, and manage direct external vendor models, agency partnerships, and direct freelance linguist networks. - Drive hypercare support during new market launches, monitoring release readiness and resolving technical or linguistic bottlenecks in real time. Required Qualifications - Experience: 6+ years of dedicated experience in Localization Program Management, Internationalization (i18n), or Localization Operations within a technology or fintech environment. - CrowdIn Mastery: Proven, hands-on experience setting up, maintaining, and optimizing project structures, workflows, and integrations in CrowdIn or CrowdIn Enterprise. - Experience working within Fintech, Regulated Industries, or complex compliance environments. - Technical Aptitude: Strong understanding of software development lifecycles (Agile/Scrum), string-based workflows, CI/CD continuous delivery models, and common file formats (JSON, YAML, XLIFF, Android XML, PO). - Vendor & Budget Oversight: Demonstrated track record of establishing vendor SLAs, negotiating direct contractor or agency rates, and managing localization budgets. - Cross-Functional Leadership: Ability to drive alignment across cross-functional partners (Product, Engineering, Design, Legal) without direct authority. Preferred Qualifications - Proficiency with design-to-localization workflows (e.g., CrowdIn plugin for Figma). - Familiarity with scripting/automation concepts (REST APIs, Python, JavaScript, Bash) or working directly with Localization Engineers. - Working proficiency or fluency in French or other key target languages is a plus.