A Crash Course in the Language Service Industry with Chinese Characteristics

In this lecture, James Halstead will introduce the global language service providing industry. What does it look like to work in the industry? How can you become a Chinese-English specialist in the UK?

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One of the most important roles in communication and conversation with any foreign business, state, and culture is that of the linguist (aka translator/interpreter). Where languages and cultures are vastly different, such as between the English-speaking world and China, perhaps even more so. Working as a linguist can be rewarding because you are assisting people in understanding and communicating with one another by navigating the differences between languages. A long-time enthusiast of Chinese language and culture, James Halstead MCIL CL, advisory board member to and previous Co-Chair of Chinese-Speakers.org, currently manages IMD Legal Translation and Interpreting Ltd, a prominent UK based LSP (language service provider) to the legal sector, and, with a background spanning UK and Chinese private business and government, has a wealth of professional and personal experience working in and with China.

In this lecture, James will discuss:

1. His profound insights into the global language service industry
2. Realistic examples of working as a Chinese<>English linguist (Translator/interpreter)
3. Introduction of the specialty and professionalism of legal translation

Come to this event for inspiration, practical tips, and industrial insights and a chance to discuss what really goes on in the magical land of language service provision. This event will be moderated by Professor Wang Binhua (Chair/Professor of interpreting and translation studies in the Centre for Translation Studies, School of Languages, Cultures and Societies at University of Leeds) who will give a brief introduction to James and translation and interpreting education at university.

James Halstead is a member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists where he holds Chartered Linguist status as both a Translator and Language Specialist, he sits on the advisory board of the Association for Speakers of Chinese as a Second Language (Chinese-Speakers.org) for which he previously acted as Co-Chair, has spent nearly a decade living in China, spent several years in the UK Government’s China Network, has been engaged at senior management level in a global Top 20 LSP, and currently manages a specialist UK based LSP focused solely on the legal sector. He is also a bit of a chocoholic.

Working together to stay safe

You can learn more about the coronavirus safety measures being implemented at the University of Leeds on this dedicated webpage.

The lecture theatre is a mechanically ventilated space. Mechanical ventilation is set to be more than adequate to cover the reduced occupancy level currently being used.

There will be plenty of room for all attendees to find a seat they are comfortable with.

Please stay at home if you are experiencing any symptoms. If you don’t have any symptoms, please consider taking a lateral flow test before attending the event.

Hand sanitiser will be provided. Handwashing facilities can also be found in the male, female, gender neutral and accessible toilets adjacent to the lecture theatre.