Language communications firm thebigword looks to expand operations in New England

Language services provider thebigword is working with the Department for International Trade to help expand its presence in New England.

The Leeds-headquartered business has won a place on the Massachusetts Higher Education Consortium (MHEC), which buys services for more than 500 public sector organisations.

Harriet Cross, the British Consul General in Boston, visited thebigword’s head office in Leeds to offer support to the company’s expansion plans.

Ms Cross was accompanied by Kirsten Chambers-Taylor, Consul and Head of Trade and Investment at the British Consulate. They have offered to make new introductions to business and government contacts across New England and in Washington DC.

The British Consulate is responsible for maintaining and developing relations between the UK and the United States.

Ms Cross said: “We were impressed with thebigword and its team of expert linguists and technologists. It was inspiring to learn how this company is breaking down language barriers to facilitate trade and prosperity across the world.

“We are keen to support the growth of UK businesses in the US and will be introducing thebigword to relevant contacts in New England and Washington DC. Winning a place on MHEC offers great opportunities for growth in big markets like Boston, which is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.”

During their visit, Ms Cross and Ms Chambers-Taylor learned about thebigword’s work as a supplier to large public and private sector organisations.

The company set up a New York office in 2007 after winning contracts with US multinationals GE and IBM.

thebigword has recruited in San Francisco to support its relationship with a Silicon Valley technology giant and in Washington DC to manage the expansion of its defence and international security business. The company also has a team in Florida.

Mark Robson, department for international trade regional director for Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “The exporting success experienced by thebigword so far has been tremendous.

“Although it doesn’t always come without its challenges, businesses across Yorkshire and the Humber are reaping the benefits from exporting. I’d urge anyone thinking of exploring overseas markets to get in touch with our team of international trade advisors now.”

Earlier this year, thebigword opened an office in Boston to serve the MHEC consortium.

Larry Gould, founder and CEO, commented: “We were very pleased to welcome Harriet and Kristen to thebigword and talk about our growth opportunities in New England. The UK is lucky to have a network of consulates across the world which can be very effective in promoting UK trade and investment.

“We are delighted to have won a place on MHEC, which buys on behalf of schools, colleges, universities, municipalities and healthcare providers. All these organisations rely on being able to communicate with users who have English as a second language. We are passionate about helping them break down the language barrier.”

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