Following our acquisition of amity communications, we get to know our new team member Michael Ellis. After initially starting out in customer services, Michael then joined the language industry as a Translator, but has developed his skills and experience to become amity’s Business Development Director.
What’s your background?
I’ve spent 30 years working in customer services, sales and business development, including 11 years spent in Italy and 9 years in Brazil as a Translator and Consultant.
Why did you want to work in the language industry?
I have worked in languages since my time spent in Italy as Customer Services Coordinator and in Brazil as a Coach, Teacher and Translator.
Helping and supporting people and companies with their language issues and challenges is very rewarding and satisfying, as well as the dynamics that are seen in the changes and evolution of languages.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Well, I have lived and worked in Italy, Brazil and the U.K. I know and can feel that there is one more place to go in the future, not sure yet where that is but it will come.
What makes you get out of bed in the morning?
The desire to support and communicate with my contacts and clients and make sure we are giving them a complete, special and different customer experience.
Also, I enjoy the buzz of working in business development and bringing in new clients.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
Playing football, going to the gym, tending to my vegetable garden and listening to vinyl records.
Do you speak any other languages?
Yes, I am fluent in Italian and Brazilian Portuguese.
If you weren’t in Business Development and Relationship Management what would you love to be doing?
I would be a teacher.