Date and place of birth? July 10, 1972, Santa Monica, California, USA

Greatest professional success? I would say that my greatest professional success is when I decided not to go to law school but instead to pursue international business.

Greatest professional mistake? Trusting people who did not deserve it.

Most embarrassing professional moment? I was hosting a meeting with people I worked with for quite awhile, but had never met face-to-face. When one of my colleagues introduced himself I blurted out, "I thought you were taller!" I have no idea where it came from, and had a hard time recovering (or changing subjects). Luckily he was very good natured… and I used the excuse that I hadn't yet had my coffee in the morning, and that I was prone to say anything so early in the morning.

Most likely to say? Anything humorous in the middle of a meeting. I think its important to keep things lighthearted, even when the pressure is on. No need to work and not try to enjoy yourself when you can.

Least likely to say? "I can't."

What do you like most about the business? In the localization business in general, I like to be a 'cultural advocate' in my company. Talking all day about the differences between languages and cultures is fantastic - I never stop learning and passing on what I know.

What do you like least about the business? About business in general: bureaucracy—it drives me crazy. Why is there a form for everything?

Who do you most admire, and why? I admire many people, so I am fortunate. One person who comes to mind immediately is my boss' boss' boss' boss'… Carly Fiorina, CEO of Hewlett-Packard. We started working here at the same time, so I have an affinity for the work she has done with the company. She promotes change, flexibility, innovation, creation—all the things that make a company great. I'm inspired by people with boundless energy and a clear vision of what it is to be the best. Further, she is one powerful female executive.

What keeps you awake at night? Our most recent current events with the terrorist attacks in the US. I fear where this might lead the people of the world, and people I know.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out? Everything you hear is true… hard work pays off; put in your dues; ask for what you want. I fought those adages when I was starting out, and it didn't help. Keep focused on your goal, don't waiver, and you will get what you want.

What is your favorite industry fantasy? That we never, ever all speak a common language around the world. That we retain the uniqueness in our own language, but find ways to communicate with each other.

Where will the industry be in five years time? Better financially than we are now.

If I had my time over again, I would… take more risks. Who knows where I would be if I had?

How would you like to be remembered? Someone who made really tough things look easy.