In the fast-paced world of translation and localization, the rise of Machine Translation (MT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping how companies operate, and Global Vendor Managers are feeling the shift more than most.

At Adaptive Globalization, we’ve spent over 20 years helping companies navigate these changes by connecting them with world-class talent. As specialists in localization recruitment, we understand the unique pressures Vendor Managers face today and we’re here to help.

The Changing Landscape

Global Vendor Managers have always played a critical role in ensuring quality, consistency, and efficiency across multilingual projects. But with AI and MT becoming more integrated into workflows, the role is evolving rapidly.

Key Challenges and How to Overcome Them

1. Balancing Human and Machine Translation

The Challenge:

AI-powered MT tools are faster and cheaper, but they often lack the cultural nuance and contextual accuracy that human translators provide. Vendor Managers must cultivate a vendor network that combines the best human linguists, and those that are most adept at Post-Editing MT to get the best results.

How to Overcome It:

• Implement hybrid workflows: Use MT for high-volume, low-risk content (e.g., internal documents), and human translators for high-impact content (e.g., marketing, legal).
• Invest in post-editing talent: Recruit linguists skilled in Post-Editing Machine Translation (PEMT) to ensure quality without sacrificing speed.
• Educate stakeholders: Help clients understand the trade-offs between speed, cost, and quality.

2. Vendor Pool Optimization

The Challenge:
Traditional vendor pools may not be equipped to handle AI-integrated workflows. Managers must reassess their networks to ensure they have the right mix of skills.

How to Overcome It:

• Audit your vendor base: Identify gaps in AI literacy, PEMT experience, and tech adaptability.
• Upskill existing vendors: Offer training in MT engines, and AI-assisted workflows.
• Partner with recruitment specialists: Work with agencies like Adaptive Globalization to source talent with the right technical and linguistic expertise.

3. Quality Assurance in an AI World

The Challenge:
AI-generated translations can introduce subtle errors that are hard to detect. Traditional QA methods may not be sufficient.

How to Overcome It:

• Adopt AI-aware QA tools: Use platforms that can flag common MT issues like mistranslations, tone inconsistencies, or terminology errors.
• Create new QA benchmarks: Develop standards specifically for AI-assisted content.
• Build feedback loops: Encourage linguists and clients to report recurring issues to improve MT engine training.

4. Cost vs. Quality Pressures

The Challenge:

Clients expect faster, cheaper translations thanks to AI, but still demand high quality. Vendor Managers are caught in the middle.

How to Overcome It:

• Set realistic expectations: Communicate clearly about what AI can and cannot do.
• Offer tiered services: Provide different pricing models based on quality levels (e.g., raw MT, PEMT, full human translation).
• Track ROI: Use data to show how quality impacts customer satisfaction and brand perception.

5. Change Management and Team Training

The Challenge:
Introducing AI tools can disrupt established workflows and create resistance among teams and vendors.

How to Overcome It:

• Lead with empathy: Acknowledge concerns and involve teams in the transition process.
• Provide hands-on training: Offer workshops and resources to help teams adapt to new tools.
• Celebrate small wins: Highlight success stories to build momentum and buy-in.

The Bottom Line

The rise of AI and MT is transforming the localization industry, but with the right strategies, Global Vendor Managers can turn these challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth.

At Adaptive Globalization, we’ve been at the forefront of localization recruitment for over 20 years. We understand the evolving demands of the industry and specialize in connecting companies with the talent they need to thrive.

🔎 Candidates: Ready to take on the future of localization?

Browse our open roles and find your next opportunity in a forward-thinking team.

💼 Clients: Need help hiring for specialized localization roles?

Contact us today to find the right talent for your evolving needs.