Enhancing Collaboration Through Exceptional Language Solutions
The journey to providing exceptional language services often begins with a vision for overcoming differences in culture and a spark of passion. The need for excellent translation and localization has increased in our increasingly globalized world, making it crucial for companies to establish genuine connections with a range of consumers.
Professionals in the field are motivated by this need to develop and adapt in order to guarantee that their services not only meet but also exceed the expectations of their clients. This effort has a significant impact because it changes the way businesses deal with their customers, promoting understanding and trust in each exchange. These experts in languages make significant contributions to the cultural interchange that supports global cooperation and trade as they negotiate the challenges of multilingual communication.
In line with this transformative mission, Vanja Keindl stands out as a noteworthy figure in the language services industry. As the Founder & CEO of the well-known Croatian translation business, she is at the forefront of this vibrant sector. With more than 26 years of expertise, she has built a solid reputation for providing her clients with superior language solutions that are tailored to meet their specific needs. Under her leadership, the company not only enhances communication but also fosters deeper cultural understanding, reflecting the very essence of what exceptional language services aim to achieve.
Under her leadership, Verba has expanded outside Croatia and become a trustworthy resource for businesses seeking specialized language services across various sectors, including the life sciences, technology, and law.
Vanja’s focus on quality and customer satisfaction has not only helped her company succeed but also set new industry standards, inspiring others to aim for excellence in their own pursuits.
Let’s know more about her journey:
Vanja’s Vision: The Genesis of VERBA
Vanja’s professional journey began during her university years, where she strategically chose her studies to gain skills that would enable early financial independence. While still a student, she taught German to children and business professionals, participating in translation competitions that showcased her commitment to quality. Her dedication quickly earned her a reputation for professionalism, leading to an overwhelming demand for her services.
Recognizing the need to expand, she began assembling a team to meet client needs. This marked the inception of VERBA, which focused on providing specialized language services. Over the years, the company developed expertise in various fields, including life sciences, marketing, technology, law, and IT. Today, VERBA is renowned for its tailored language solutions catering specifically to the B2B market.
She attributes much of her success to her dedicated team, many of whom have been with her for years. Together, they continuously adapt strategies to meet the evolving demands of a global market. What started as a means for personal independence has transformed into a globally recognized brand synonymous with quality and precision in translation and localization services.
Balancing Ambition and Well-Being
Vanja has navigated the delicate balance between professional ambition and personal well-being throughout her career. From the outset, she understood that achieving success in business required hard work and dedication, but her passion for her work made these demands feel rewarding rather than burdensome. Over time, however, she recognized the physical toll that a technology-driven career could take on her health, prompting a shift in her priorities toward a healthier lifestyle.
To maintain this balance, she emphasizes a nutritious diet and mindful eating habits that support her energy levels and overall health. While she occasionally deviates from her plans, she views these moments as exceptions rather than failures. Regular physical activity has also become integral to her routine, enhancing her energy and confidence, qualities she brings back to her professional life.
At VERBA, health is a shared value among the team, exemplified by their participation in an annual 5-kilometer race that encourages camaraderie and encourages a culture of wellness. She cherishes her free time, using it to engage in activities that bring joy and recharge her spirit. Ultimately, she believes that true success lies not only in professional achievements but also in nurturing meaningful relationships with family and friends.
Business Philosophy: A Commitment to Quality and Stability
Vanja’s approach to business is rooted in building a stable and sustainable company. With over 26 years of experience, she emphasizes the importance of risk management, ensuring that VERBA identifies potential challenges and takes proactive measures to mitigate them. This focus has fostered a safe and reliable workplace for employees.
Continuous education and adaptation are vital to her strategy, as the business landscape is ever-changing. The significant milestone of Croatia joining the EU in 2013 allowed VERBA to expand its international partnerships and refine its processes to meet ISO quality standards. This commitment to excellence has resulted in valuable collaborations with leading companies worldwide.
Quality remains at the forefront of VERBA’s mission. By maintaining integrity and delivering on promises, she has cultivated long-lasting relationships with clients, earning their trust year after year. Her appetite for business is driven by a desire for excellence and the goal of nurturing enduring partnerships.
The Driving Passion
Vanja is fueled by a deep sense of responsibility and commitment, values instilled in her from a young age. She prioritizes her obligations, setting clear goals and organizing her tasks to minimize stress. Each week, she creates a structured schedule that not only grounds her but also allows her to embrace challenges outside her comfort zone.
In her dynamic role within the language services industry, she thrives on creativity and flexibility, engaging with diverse cultures and perspectives. The relationships she builds with employees, suppliers, collaborators, and clients are what make her work truly fulfilling.
Throughout her career, she has cherished the opportunity to connect with remarkable individuals worldwide, learning from each encounter. This constant exchange of knowledge enriches her both personally and professionally. It is the joy of collaboration, continuous learning, and creative engagement that fuels her passion for her work, reminding her that success is about growth, connecting, and finding purpose in every experience.
Navigating the Challenges of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges for many industries, including translation. However, she and her team at VERBA were well-prepared, having already established a remote work model. Initially, they had planned for in-person sales activities but quickly pivoted to digital marketing and online meetings to adapt to the new environment.
Internally, the transition to remote work created a need for enhanced communication. Regular online meetings and one-on-one calls helped maintain team morale and connection during a time of uncertainty. The pandemic also increased demand for translation services in life sciences, where VERBA has strong expertise, leading to a surge in projects related to medical content.
As a result of these adaptations, VERBA not only survived but thrived. The experience reinforced the importance of flexibility and resilience in business, shaping a hybrid working model that continues to benefit employees while addressing evolving market demands.
Strengths and Learning Opportunities
Vanja’s greatest strength lies in her commitment to achieving her goals. She pursues objectives relentlessly, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Her proactive approach ensures that she addresses issues promptly, fostering a solution-oriented mindset. She excels at simplifying complex situations, believing that clarity leads to effective action.
As the CEO of two language service companies, she recognizes that her perfectionism can be both an asset and a challenge. While striving for excellence is vital, she has learned the importance of delegation. Allowing team members to take ownership not only alleviates her workload but also empowers them to develop their skills and confidence.
Achievements: A Journey of Excellence
Vanja holds a master’s degree in German language studies from the University of Zagreb and began her career as a certified translator. She became a licensed court interpreter, quickly advancing from translator to mentor for emerging professionals. As a project manager, she introduced ISO business standards, achieving ISO 9001 certification and enhancing VERBA’s international reputation.
In collaboration with Mr. Luciano Lykkebo, she co-founded a translation agency in Denmark, gaining insights into cultural sensitivity crucial for effective communication. She served on the ethics committee from 2015 to 2021 and was elected President of the Croatian Association of Translation Agencies in 2021.
Her recent accolade, the “Creators for Centuries” award in October 2024, recognizes her contributions to advancing women’s entrepreneurship in Central and Southeastern Europe. These achievements reflect her dedication to excellence and her commitment to fostering growth within her industry and community.
Leadership Advice
Vanja emphasizes that true leadership begins with leading by example. To inspire dedication and honesty in others, leaders must embody these values themselves. She believes that effective leadership is a continuous journey of personal investment in knowledge, skills, and health, while also prioritizing the development of team members and embracing modern technology.
Selecting high-quality collaborators who align with organizational values is crucial. She advocates for a mentoring approach, which nurtures talent and fosters trust within teams. She asserts that structured processes and effective risk management are foundational for sustainable success.
Anticipating change and adapting quickly are essential traits for leaders. By maintaining a forward-looking mindset, they can navigate challenges effectively. Finally, nurturing core human values like honesty and open communication fosters a positive culture that extends beyond the workplace, creating a lasting impact on both the organization and the community.
Mantra for Growth and Success
Vanja emphasizes the importance of self-belief and health as foundational elements for growth and success. She advocates for maintaining balance in both life and business, which fosters resilience in the face of challenges. She asserts “True success is about creating a meaningful journey where personal development and well-being coexist.”
She encourages aspiring leaders to lead with heart and purpose, nurturing both their own growth and that of their teams. By fostering a values-driven environment, she highlights the significance of open communication and integrity. Her message is clear: prioritize what truly matters, embrace challenges, and cultivate connections that enrich both personal and professional lives.
