For the ATC’s Chair Ruth Partington, growth, success and recognition in business are born out of innovative collaborations, and a genuine drive towards a sustainable future. Her recent business accolades prove the point: passion, dedication and collaboration will not just take you on an amazing journey, but also grow your business while you’re on it.

Building for the future

Ruth founded Empower Translate in the late 90’s, building the company up as a specialist market research localization powerhouse. She is a key driver behind the ATC’s strategic direction and growth, and actively involved in the Market Research Society’s initiatives around diversity, equity and inclusion, and sustainability.

“I have four passions: my family, my company, the language services industry and the insight industry,” Ruth says. “I’m fortunate to be building a business with my family while driving change in two industries that are in the privileged position of being truly global. For me, leadership is about standing up to be counted, and paving the way for others to find their voice. It’s very validating when years of hard work are recognized for helping to build a more sustainable, equitable society.”

E2E Female 100

In early 2023, Ruth was included in the inaugural E2E Female 100, showcasing the very best UK female-run or founded companies that are excelling, experiencing consistent growth, and presenting disruptive business strategies creating an impact.

Shining a spotlight on leading innovators and changemakers and promoting unique businesses and celebrating entrepreneurial excellence, the E2E Female 100 is run in collaboration with The Independent, benchmarking innovative leaders and their companies through their growth rate of employees.

Research Heroes

In 2022, Ruth was awarded Research Hero status by the Market Research Society. As the founder of a specialist research localization company, Ruth has spent her career advocating for and building resources that support global research.

In her dual industry roles as Member of the MRS Accredited Company Partner Council, and chair of the ATC, Ruth spearheaded the creation of the MRS/ATC Checklist for Buying Translation Services.

Queen’s Award for Enterprise

In 2022, Ruth’s company Empower Translate was awarded one of the last Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, (now known as the King’s Awards for Enterprise) in the International Trade category.

Empower Translate was recognized by the late Queen Elizabeth II for excellence in international commercial success, as well as outstanding growth in overseas trade.

Now in its 56th year, and first year under King Charles III, the King’s Awards for Enterprise are regarded as the most prestigious business awards in the UK.

Building a stronger ATC

The ATC’s CEO Raisa McNab recognises the impact of strong, forward-looking leadership: “Ruth has been instrumental in shaping the ATC’s strategic direction over the past five years, paving the way for innovative commercial collaborations that continue to point the way towards a more inclusive, cooperative way of working, adding value and opening up business to ATC member companies.”

“I am hugely grateful to Ruth for her dedication and insight, but also for her friendship and passion in building a stronger, future-proofed ATC. These well-deserved accolades show that you can build your business up for success through collaboration, and a drive to do the right thing.”

The ATC congratulates Ruth on her outstanding business and leadership accomplishments!