How RWS Is Shaping the Future of Talent, Technology, and Language Solutions: Insights from CEO Benjamin Faes

In today’s rapidly evolving global economy, companies in the language services sector are navigating dramatic shifts – from the rise of AI to increasing geopolitical complexities. During the May edition of the Elevate Talent series, Annette Lawlor, CEO of Lion People Global, sat down with Benjamin Faes, CEO of RWS, to explore how one of the world’s largest language service providers is responding.

This in-depth conversation revealed a forward-thinking leadership philosophy grounded in community, agility, and innovation, and offered key takeaways for business leaders, localization professionals, and talent strategists alike.

Leading with Connection: Culture as a Competitive Advantage

One of the strongest themes from the conversation was Ben’s deep commitment to authentic communication across the organization. Every Sunday, he writes a company-wide email – not just to inform, but to invite feedback and reflection.

“It’s a great tool to engage the team, to make them feel part of one company.” 

This deliberate effort to create a sense of belonging and shared purpose reinforces a core belief: that a thriving company is one where everyone is emotionally invested in the outcome.

“My biggest dream would be that every single employee feels the mission to make RWS successful.”

AI + Human Talent: The Future of Language Solutions

One of the Elevate Talent session topics was the role of AI in shaping future talent strategies. A LinkedIn poll revealed that 89% of attendees believe AI and automation will have the biggest impact by 2025.

Faes acknowledges the dual role of technology and human expertise in delivering true value.

“What clients want more and more is a language solution (…) a mix of technology and managed services,” Ben said. “You need human assurance to avoid miscommunication and brand damage.”

Platforms like Language Weaver, Train.ai, and Evolve illustrate RWS’s approach – using AI as an enabler, not a replacement, of human insight.

Freelancers and the Evolving Role of the Linguist

With a freelancer base of over 40,000, RWS holds a major stake in the well-being of independent linguists. Faes openly addressed the pressure these professionals face in today’s hybrid workflows.

“There’s less A-to-B translation and more quality review, specialization, and even live interpreting,” he noted.

He emphasized the need for continuous learning and adaptation, and the importance of partnerships that support freelancers through industry shifts.

“More and more companies are translating more content in more languages – but the way it’s done is changing.”

Scaling Smart: Skills Over Titles in Team Building

Faes also offered candid insights on scaling future-ready teams – not by bloating headcount, but by investing in agility and skill.

“I spend at least 20% of my time talking to people to find talent,” he shared. “I don’t like to label people. Each one is here to solve a mission and move on to the next.”

Rather than hiring based on job titles, Benjamin advocates for skills-first recruitment, a model especially relevant as new roles emerge in areas like AI content editing, prompt engineering, and accessibility.

Watch the full session recording here: 

Democratizing Data: Driving Innovation from Within

Looking inward, Faes highlighted a surprising challenge: making internal data more accessible to employees.

“There was one thing magical at Google… everybody could plug in and see what was happening. I’m trying to make data more democratized at RWS,” he said.

This kind of openness, he argues, is a catalyst for innovation and encourages broader participation from teams.

RWS’s Next Chapter: A New Vision for Product and Tech

To drive its next wave of innovation, RWS recently brought on a new Chief Product & Technology Officer – a move Faes is clearly excited about.

“All the new roles like AI editors and cultural consultants, matter. But we’re also investing in leadership to shape where we’re going.”

It’s clear that the future of RWS lies not just in adapting to change but in shaping it, with bold leadership, inclusive talent strategies, and a global mindset.

Conclusion

Benjamin Faes’s vision for RWS is not fear or disruption but empowerment, opportunity, and unity. In an industry facing seismic shifts, RWS stays ahead by blending AI and human intelligence, supportingemployees and freelancers, and building an organisation where purpose and performance align.

Do you like it? Check our previous sessions: 

“Fundamentally, there is more and more content, more languages, and more need for connection.”