Joel Van Valkenhoef

Experience

• 

  Textcase Translations

  Jan 2005 - Apr 2007

  Freelance Translator

  My first opportunity to apply my translation skills professionally, translating novels and non-fiction works into both Dutch and English. This experience allowed me to hone my craft while completing a full-time academic program in translation and linguistics, balancing theoretical knowledge with practical application.

• 

  Radboud in'to Languages translation service

  Jan 2007 - Dec 2016

  As an Interim Translation Project Manager at Radboud in'to Languages, I was responsible for overseeing large-scale translation projects from inception to delivery. My role encompassed team building, training, effective communication with translators and clients, and ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality projects while maintaining strong customer relationships.This experience provided me with a solid foundation in project, people, and client management, which has been instrumental in shaping Cross Border Translation into the thriving agency it is today. The skills I honed during this time—managing complex workflows, fostering collaboration, and exceeding client expectations—are ones I continue to apply daily in my own business and professional network. Show less In addition to managing Cross Border Translation (CBT) and serving as Interim Project Manager at Radboud in'to Languages, I further developed my expertise in Dutch-English and English-Dutch translation during my time there. This hands-on experience has been invaluable in refining my ability to evaluate linguistic nuances and match the right professionals to each project.These skills are integral to CBT's success, ensuring consistent high-quality results for our clients while maintaining a tailored approach to every translation need. Show less

  • Interim Manager, Translation & Client Relations

    Jan 2009 - Dec 2016

  • Freelance Translator

    Jan 2007 - Dec 2016
• 

  Cross Border Translation

  Mar 2008 - now

  Founder and Managing Director

  At the helm of Cross Border Translation, I lead a team delivering expert multilingual translation and localization services. We translate into over 50 languages, providing tailored solutions for diverse industries. Some highlights:- Translating technical manuals and safety documentation into 8 languages for an international automotive company, covering 250,000 words. This project ensured compliance and required collaboration with engineers and in-country reviewers.- Localizing e-commerce platforms, product descriptions, and marketing materials into 7 languages for a global online marketplace. Spanning 400,000 words, this project enabled seamless expansion into Asia and Europe.- Managing 200,000 words of humanitarian aid documentation into 5 languages for a leading NGO under tight deadlines.- Delivering 900,000 words of healthcare-related documents from English into Dutch in a single month for a US-based healthcare software company. This project demanded precision and adherence to deadlines.- Localizing video scripts, training materials, and multimedia content into 8 languages for the largest explainer video agency in Germany. This project adapted complex concepts into engaging, culturally resonant content.- Translating and localizing eLearning materials, including 100+ hours of videos, 50+ interactive modules, and 1,000 pages of course material into multiple languages for leaders in corporate training and cybersecurity awareness.- Translating 10,000+ product descriptions and marketing campaigns into 6 languages for a European fashion retailer.- Coordinating 300,000 words into 6 languages for the City of Amsterdam during COVID-19, ensuring accessibility for migrant communities.My clients can expect accurate, impactful translations that help their businesses resonate with new audiences, navigate diverse markets, and create meaningful connections. Show less

• 

  Taalcentrum-VU

  May 2008 - Mar 2019

  Translation Specialist – Taalcentrum VU

  During my time at Taalcentrum VU, I honed my translation expertise through a diverse range of assignments across various fields and languages. This role provided a strong foundation for my current work, allowing me to develop advanced skills in managing multilingual projects and navigating complex translation challenges.

• 

  Loft Film

  Apr 2018 - now

  Trusted Provider of Multilingual Translation Services for Loft Film

  Cross Border Translation has been the exclusive provider of video script translations for Loft Film GmbH since 2018, delivering translations into over 20 languages, with this number continuing to grow.- Lead and manage all aspects of translation services, ensuring the delivery of culturally attuned and high-quality translations for scripts, subtitles, and promotional materials.- Play an active role in Loft Film’s strategic expansion into the English-speaking market by providing tailored language solutions that resonate with target audiences.- Oversee a team of skilled linguists to maintain consistency with Loft Film’s creative vision, supporting both indie productions and high-profile films under tight deadlines.- Foster a trusted partnership with Loft Film, enabling their stories to connect with global audiences and achieve international success. Show less