ITC Business Council – Irene Agnew

Irene Agnew – Member of the Business Council for Artificial Intelligence and Women in International Trade

 

 

Irene Agnew, President of Agnew Multilingual, is a trailblazer in the business services sector, specializing in multilingual translations. Her company, which has served prominent clients like Southern California Edison, Raytheon, Southern California Gas, Apple, and YMCA, has been a leader in providing high-quality language solutions for over 36 years. As a member of both the Artificial Intelligence and Women in International Trade Business Councils, Irene plays a vital role in shaping conversations around innovation and diversity in global trade.

 

Born in Russia, Irene emigrated to the United States, where her fluency in Russian became the foundation for her career in translation. After studying linguistics at UCLA, she worked as a translator for prestigious organizations such as the Rand Corporation. This experience, coupled with her passion for sales and business development, led to the creation of her own successful enterprise, Agnew Multilingual.

 

Throughout her career, Irene has navigated significant shifts in the industry, including the transition from typewriters with multilingual discs to modern software that supports all languages. She has contributed to key projects for government entities and multinational corporations, helping them navigate the complexities of international trade through precise and culturally aware translations.

 

Under her leadership, Agnew Multilingual has adapted to the ever-evolving landscape of global communication. Irene recognizes the industry’s challenges, such as the under-recognition of translation services as a key player in global business. However, she is confident that the sector will gain more prominence in the coming years, particularly as it becomes more integrated into global marketing and international trade.

 

A forward-thinking leader, Irene is excited about the increasing localization of software across various industries, a trend she believes will continue to drive the demand for translation services. Her advice to those entering the industry is to focus on delivering high-quality translations that are mindful of cultural, ethnic, and political contexts, ensuring effective global marketing and trade.

 

In addition to her professional achievements, Irene finds inspiration in the resilience required to thrive in a dynamic industry. She believes that adaptability is key to overcoming challenges, particularly during periods of economic or political uncertainty.

 

Outside of her work, Irene enjoys reading, writing press releases and marketing materials for her company, practicing yoga, and attending musicals and movies. She is currently writing her own biography, reflecting on her remarkable journey as a business leader and innovator in the translation industry.

 

Irene Agnew’s longstanding dedication to her craft and her leadership within the International Trade Council exemplify her commitment to excellence and global collaboration. Through her work, she continues to shape the future of the translation industry and its critical role in international business.