Daniel Finck

localization

manager - Engineer - pro

Digital resume

PDF Version
Limited copy for offline viewing
Summary
Abbreviated Version for quick reference

Daniel Finck

LOCALIZATION

manager

ENGINEER

PRO

dfinck@loquatics.com
+49 (0) 1711735738
feedback

Dear Recruiters and Interested Parties,

This page is the online version of my CV (“Digital Resume”) and is an attempt to offer a modern alternative to the traditional paper-based format. While the goal was to make a lot of information easier to digest, it also allowed me to include media-based representation of my career and capabilities.

FEEDBACK

I am eager to learn if I was able to accomplish some of my goals. Who better to ask, then my target audience – you! Completely unrelated to my performance in the application process, I would greatly appreciate you submitting your opinion via the quick poll below – completely anonymous. 

BUGS

In case you encounter any technical issues when viewing the page. don’t hesitate to contact me directly! You can also report it via the form below.

Thank you!
-Daniel

PROFILE

After mastering advanced localization workflows for companies of all shapes and sizes, this seasoned expert is poised to return in-house, bringing a wealth of knowledge to guarantee your products' success.
With in-depth understanding and hands-on experience in all major aspects of the localization process, this versatile professional is the perfect fit for multiple roles within your team.

EXPERIENCE
REMOTE TEAM/PROJECT MANAGEMENT (FABRIC)
Jan 2024 - present

Consultancy Target: Embedded Gyant’s localization setup after the acquisition by fabric into the new corporate context. Instructed the new teams on how to integrate their endpoints. Managed localization requests in the interim period.

  • Language team recruitment/training and locale management for medical assistant AI in various iterations and connected platforms (Alexa skill, Mobile app, Facebook chat bot, hospital patient reception software)
  • setting up web-based collaboration framework with platforms for project/localization & freelance resources management, billing and bug tracking – enabling continuous localization for the client’s content release process 
Slack
Crowdin
Jira
Monday
consultancy Follow-ups (Wooga, Veon)
Aug 2023 - Dec 2023

Consultancy Target: Completed stretch-goals and additional feature requests for clients VEON and Wooga. Introduction of AI based translation suggestions feature for the former.

Localization Executive (Trendyol)
Jun 2022 - Aug 2023
Consultancy Target: Implemented centralized Translation Management System to the agile content development workflow between design, engineering and localization teams. Created a one-stop location for managing localization needs of any department at Trendyol, catering to their respective CMS tools through secure interfaces.
* Introduction video promoting the launch of the centralized localization platform
  • Directing the design and implementation of a centralized Translation Management System
  • Building of a secure interface for seamless and secure data exchange between internal and external sources.
  • Creation of an agile content development workflow, enhancing collaboration between design, localization, and development departments and driving production efficiency.
  • Development and deployment of an internal app centralizing request submission and tracking, thereby simplifying processes and improving departmental efficiency.
  • Creation of a one-stop solution catering to all localization needs, offering a user-friendly platform for internal teams.
  • Implementation of automated status reporting and communication channel creation, fostering transparent and effective communication between stakeholders.
Crowdin
Gitlab
ClickUp
Figma
Slack
WordPress
Linux Server
AWS
GCP
I18n/L10n Workflow revision (preply)
Jul 2021 - Apr 2022

Consultancy Target: Created a language string library and scalable content management solution in Crowdin, introduced internationalization guidelines, and enabled a fully agile localization workflow with Figma.

  • developing a language string library and ensure clarity on how to maintain it for all parties involved in the content development process
  • producing a scalable solution for content (string) management in Crowdin
  • creating internationalization guidelines and best practices for content creators (developers) and localizers
  • Enable fully agile localization workflow with Figma implementation by resolving remaining blockers
Crowdin
Memsource/Phrase
Confluence
Slack
WordPress
L10n + LQA project revision (Bandai Namco)
Sep 2018 - Apr 2020

Consultancy Target: Revamped the localization and QA processes for a delayed MMORPG project by implementing a self-hosted translation solution, introducing efficient bug tracking tools, and creating a transparent budgeting and request management system.

  • detailed expert assessment for the localization and QA components for a 2-year old MMORPG game development project veering of course closing in on its repeatedly delayed release date
  • replacing the existing primary translation vendor and its error-prone  CAT setup with a lightweight and transparent self-hosted solution that allowed the newly recruited BNEA remote l10n team to assume and complete the localization process 
  • introduction of bug tracking tools and workflows that are easy as well as economic to use and monitor by the newly recruited remote LQA team 
  • creating a transparent budgeting and request management interface for the new l10n manager
MemoQ (hosted)
PHP Scripts
Slack
Teamwork
Paperspace
AWS
l10n workflow revision (Outfit7)
May 2018 - Aug 2018

Consultancy Target: Coached Outfit7 L10n for mastering next level targets as adaptive and solution-oriented internal service provider by identifying opportunities for revising or replacing current workflows and tools.

  • identified and implemented a light-weight alternative to the existing CAT platform that yields better flexibility, faster turnarounds, precise scheduling and reduces the overhead of freelancer task assignment
  • integration of the translation tool with with an intuitive PMS for transparent reporting, scheduling and budgeting
  • integration of the PMS with a standardized L10n request system without obstructing ongoing processes
Memsource
MemoQ (cloud)
Crowdin
Zanata (self-hosted)
Jira
Slack
Confluence
Harvest

REMOTE TEAM/PROJECT MANAGEMENT (Veon/Beeline)

May 2017 - Jan 2019

Consultancy Target: Setup and support of continuous localization service for the unified mobile app of the Eastern European mobile network carriers belonging to the Veon Group / recruiting, training and management of required language specialists for 6 languages to function as remote team

  • Language team recruitment, tool implementation and training, creating independent continuous translation setups for each new market version
  • establishing cross-functional team workflows between Veon HQ, the stakeholders at its subsidiary telecommunication companies (e.g. Wind, Beeline, Kyivstar) and the remote localization team for the Russian, Ukrainian, Georgian, Armenian, Kazakh, Uzbek, Kyrgyz, Bengali, Tajik, French and Italian language version of the Veon iOS and Android flaship app
Phrase
Github
HTML scripts
Teamwork
Slack
REMOTE TEAM/PROJECT MANAGEMENT (GYANT)
Oct 2016 - Dec 2023

Consultancy Target: Setup and support of continuous localization service for a medical AI platform / recruiting, training and management of required language specialists for 5 languages to function as remote team

  • Language team recruitment/training and locale management for medical assistant AI in various iterations and connected platforms (Alexa skill, Mobile app, Facebook chat bot, hospital patient reception software)
  • setting up web-based collaboration framework with platforms for project/localization & freelance resources management, billing and bug tracking – enabling continuous localization for the client’s content release process 
Slack
Crowdin
Jira
Monday
client collaboration platform (Anakan)
Jan 2016 - Oct 2016

Consultancy Target: Established a collaboration platform for the LSP that allows clients to to interact with l10n managers for their projects

  • Led the planning and execution of Audio Recording & Translation workflows tailored to suit the diverse needs of both Indie and AAA clients, ensuring continuity in their agile release processes when outsourcing.
  • Established collaboration conditions conducive to delivering localization assets of high quality, efficiency, and targeted market focus for each project.
  • Developed and introduced a custom client frontend seamlessly integrated into Salesforce for enhanced accessibility and operational efficiency.
MemoQ
Salesforce
WordPress
Workflow & tool revision (Wooga)
Oct 2015 - Dec 2015

Consultancy Target: Replaced the proprietary CMS tool with a better suited commercial solution / connecting the various internal dev studios with the new system.

  • Supporting the transformation of the localization department into a dynamic internal service provider catering to all localization needs of the game publisher.
  • Led the planning, budgeting, and execution of introducing centralized CMS & PMS environment, utilizing Podio, Slack, and custom integration scripts.
  • Enhanced workflows to foster seamless collaboration among internal/external resources and language service providers, ensuring readiness for elevated targets while maintaining Agile flexibility.
  •  
Slack
Podio
Wordbee
Crowdin
In 2015 I started working as independent localization expert with my consultancy 'Loquatics'. All of the major projects I have worked on in that capacity were full-time commitments that required me to work as part of the in-house teams until the Consultancy Target set by the client was met. Some of these projects took years to complete and in a couple of instances lead to employment by the client (see Veon + Trendyol).
Head of localization (Prosiebensat.1 Media)
Jun 2012 - Sep 2015

Coordination of all internal and external localization/LQA tasks worldwide. Supervision of the Localization department and its subdivisions. Planning, execution, and optimization of project schedules, workflows, and reports. Defined measurable localization KPIs while promoting best practices and reporting on ROI to stakeholders. Negotiated contracts with language service providers and tool developers.

  • Effective coordination, budgeting and administration of all internal and external efforts related to the localization/LQA of Aeria’s games and associated contents worldwide
  • Supervision of Aeria’s Localization department and its sub-divisions (Translation/Copy-Writing, Localization Management, L10n Engineering and LQA)
  • Planning, execution and optimization of project schedules, request workflows, financial accounting, resource allocation and executive management reporting for all ongoing localization processes
  • Defining qualitative and quantitative KPIs for Localization with a clear communication strategy
  • Proactively promotes and educates external developers and internal stakeholders about game localization best practices and ROI estimates/facts
  • Negotiates prices and details of framework contracts with external language service providers
  • Appointed youth protection commissioner for Aeria Games and direct point of contact to the German Entertainment Software Self-Regulation Body (USK)
Clarizen
Jira
Hipchat
MemoQ (self-hosted)
Memsource
DejaVu X2
Pootle
SENIOR LOCALIZATION MANAGER (Aeria Games)
Nov 2010 - May 2012

Planning and coordination of translation/localization/QA tasks for new releases, content updates, and marketing texts. Managed six EU language teams, performed statistical project analysis to ensure optimal cost & progress efficiency. Managed and trained team members in regards to proper file preparation, segmentation, CAT/TMS implementation, and project automation. Recruitment, allocation, and evaluation of in-house and freelance linguists.

  • Planning and coordinating the translation/localization/QA of new releases, content updates for released titles and marketing texts, while managing the 6 EU language teams of the start-up company
  • performing statistical project analysis methods to keep release processes as cost-effective and goal-oriented as possible
  • File preparation, segmentation, CAT implementation and content update automation for all localization/QA projects
  • Linguistic and technical training of in-house translation teams
  • Recruitment, allocation and evaluation of in-house and freelance resources
Jira
DejaVu X2
Pootle
Freelance Translator
2006 - 2010
  • TV and movie projects highlights (subtitle/script translator): One Tree Hill (WB) The Hangover (WB) Supernatural (WB) Terminator Salvation (Sony) Family Guy (Fox) The International (Sony) My Name is Earl (Fox) The Blind Side (WB) How I Met Your Mother (Fox) Inception (WB)
  • Video game project highlights (translator): Castlevania: Harmony of Dispair (Xbox 360), Contra” (Wii), Enchanted Folk and the School of Wizardry (Nintendo DS), Elemental Monster (PSP) and Adrenalin Misfits (Xbox 360)
  • Voice over project highlights (voice actor): Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney series (Nintendo DS / 3DS)
SKILLS
While there are more tools to mention, the list below focuses on the most frequently utilized and illustrates the respective level of familiarity by differentiating between experienced, advanced or admin-level usage.

L10N

Localization & translation software

ADMIN
ADVANCED
EXPERIENCED

CMS/DEV

Content management & development software

ADMIN
ADVANCED
EXPERIENCED

PMS

Project Management & collaboration software

ADMIN
Confluence
ADVANCED
EXPERIENCED

LANGUAGES

English
native-level 100%
German
native 100%
Japanese
casual 50%
French
basic 10%

SOFT SKILLS

Logical

Decision-making grounded in facts and data

RELIABLE

Delivers results self-reliantly, on-time and on-budget

CREATIVE

Thinks outside the box 

DIY Mentality

Creates solutions if no suitable exists (yet)

has been around the block

Knows the major tool and vendor players in the industry –
their strengths and weaknesses

passionate

Loves his craft

ACADEMICS
PRESENTATIONS / KEYNOTES​
“The Q-Factor Turnabout — Adapting Localization Alongside Changing Attitudes toward Quality and Quantity in a Maturing F2P Industry”
LOCALIZATION WORLD BARCELONA | 2017
“L10N OF F2P, ROI, DAU & CO – THE EMERGENCE OF THE QUALITY KPI IN THE METRIC-DRIVEN FREE-2-PLAY GAMES BUSINESS”​
UNIVERSITY OF LEIPZIG | 2016
“MOBILE GAMES LOCALIZATION: CHALLENGE ACCEPTED”​
LOCALIZATION WORLD BERLIN | 2015
“L10n goes f2p: making in-house localization work at aeria games”
LOCALIZATION WORLD LONDON | 2012
* Details available on request.
EDUCATION

MASTER OF ARTS

Magna cum laude for his master thesis "To Mask a Ninja: Cultural Transfer and the Localization of Cultural Elements on the Example of Japanese Anime Exports for the US market"  
UNIVERSITY OF LEIPZIG | 2004-2010

CIVILIAN SERVICE (ZIVILDIENST)​

2003
General higher Education
Entrance Qualification (Abitur)
2002
* Official documents available on request.
PERSONAL PROJECTS / INTERESTS
"GLOW - The Game localization & QA management Workshop" series
Founder and organizer of GLOW, a non-commercial and independent conference format for leading l10n specialists working at games publishers and developers. About 2-3 events are hosted yearly by participating publishers on-premise.
MT, LLM & Co enthusiast
Active observer and tinkerer of integrations involving recent AI developments. As the field of localization is regularly transformed by tech, knows that staying ahead of the game and providing clients with optimal solutions requires constant engagement with it.
references
LETTER OF REFERENCE
COLLEAGUES FEEDBACK

"Daniel and I had worked together before when he was running the inhouse localization team at Aeria Games, so he was a natural choice when we were looking for localization support for GYANT.  Daniel knows localization inside and out. He's familiar with all the latest tools and knows how to deploy them for maximum efficiency. His network in the industry is as broad as it gets and he will be able to help you with project set-up, file handling, encoding and all the other possible joys of the l10n process. 

All our projects were completed on time (or sooner) and within budget. At all times, Daniel's communication was reliable and proactive. It was a pleasure working with him and his team and I look forward to more joint projects in the future."

Stefan Behrens​
CEO | ProSiebenSat.1 Games / Gyant

"I joined Daniel's localization team at Aeria Games to help create an LQA strategy for their f2p MMO titles. Daniel had the vision - and provided the necessary support - to push for this addition, in line with his strong focus on defining and tracking localization quality standards and KPIs for efficient stakeholder reporting.

His superb technical know-how and excellent knowledge about the available tools and their capabilities afford him deep insights into the industry and the ability to pick and combine the best solutions for any purpose, as well as to implement them himself as needed. Daniel's inquisitive mind and solution-driven attitude help him to always be up-to-date and stay on top of the latest industry developments, to achieve the best-possible and most efficient results."

Michael K. Schmidt
Director Localization | Audible

"Having worked with Daniel on a number of large scale game localization projects during my time with Aeria Games, I was always impressed by his professionalism, ability to assimilate information, and adapt to new challenges. His project management skills and strong focus on measurable results and KPIs enabled us to identify processes that were sub-optimal and drove the localization department to greater efficiencies.

Daniel was directly responsible for a large multi-lingual team of expert game translators as well as project management of various parallel localization projects, some individual projects with a +2 million word count. His knowledge of localization methodologies, processes, and tools grew sharply over all the projects we worked on together, giving him an excellent balance of skills and experience in both the practical application of localization best practices and the international game release cycle."

Patrick Wheeler
CTO | Co. Society

"Daniel and his team of professionals ensure that the localization of all our games reaches the highest quality. Publishing games globally requires a tremendous effort to maintain this high quality in all provided languages. Even beyond client and mobile games, his department secures the quality of all written and spoken words that leave the company. I always enjoyed working together with him for the benefit of the company, and wish him best of luck for his career."

Matthias Fellinger
CTO | Aeria Games / Co. Society