In this episode of Merging Minds, Javi interviews Kristy Sakai, CEO of WE ARE VERY, a multilingual content and localization agency. Kristy shares her story of moving from a program manager to leading a global team, how rebranding helped her company grow, and why AI is transforming the localization industry. If you're into entrepreneurship, leadership, or the future of localization, this episode is packed with insights.
Kristy’s Leadership Journey: From Program Manager to CEO
Kristy didn’t start as a CEO—she began as a program manager. "I was managing projects, more on the production side," she shares. But she soon realized she wanted more. She proposed opening a U.S. branch of Supertext, and that’s when things changed. Kristy’s passion for solving problems and leading teams helped her grow into the role of CEO.
Her advice? “I think I grew into it more than I thought I was ready to lead.” Sometimes, leadership is about jumping in and learning as you go.
Takeaway: Leadership often comes from embracing change and new challenges.
The Power of Rebranding: A Fresh Start for We Are Very
We Are Very went through a major rebrand in 2024. "Rebranding wasn’t just about a new name," Kristy says. It was about adjusting the company to meet new market demands. With global clients, We Are Very needed to reflect its broader focus. Kristy explained that the rebranding helped them align with where they were heading, both in terms of strategy and market focus.
Her takeaway: "It’s not just about looks—it’s about aligning with where you want to go."
Rebranding Tip: Rebranding should reflect not just visual changes but strategic goals.
Embracing AI in Localization and Copywriting
Kristy highlights how AI is changing the way We Are Very handles copywriting and localization. "We realized that AI could help us scale," she says. But she’s quick to point out that human creativity is still crucial. "While AI can handle repetitive tasks, it’s the human touch that makes the content really stand out."
We Are Very is using generative AI to streamline tasks but always ensures that the final product maintains quality through human oversight.
Sustainable Growth: Future-Proofing Your Business
Kristy believes in planning for the long run. “How can we grow sustainably? That’s what our rebranding was all about,” she explains. For Kristy, it’s not just about growing fast, but growing in a way that ensures the company stays relevant for years to come.
Her approach to sustainability? "Technology is evolving every day. We need to evolve too."
Key Takeaways from Kristy Sakai
- Embrace Change: Don’t be afraid to step into new roles or rebrand if it aligns with your future goals.
- Utilize AI: Leverage AI for efficiency, but remember the human touch matters.
- Think Long-Term: Sustainable growth requires looking ahead and adapting as needed.
Conclusion
Kristy’s journey as CEO shows that leadership is about staying flexible, embracing new technology, and always thinking ahead. Whether you’re leading a team, rebranding, or adapting to AI, her advice is simple: “Keep going, even when it’s tough.”
Watch the full Merging Minds podcast episode for more of Kristy’s insights:
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