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Marion Rifkind, the visionary founder of Universe
Technical Translation (UTT), has championed language services with
professionalism and care. From her early beginnings in the United Kingdom to
her current status as a global industry leader, Rifkind has blazed a trail that
few can match.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Rifkind is known for her philanthropic endeavors and her dedication to community service. She has been a strong advocate for women in business and has actively supported various charitable causes.
“We have been around for over 40 years, so I think that says something; however, we believe we are as good as our last job, we can work for a company for ten years, and if we were to blow it, we know that we would be out. So, we take our job very seriously, treat every job as a brand-new job, we are in the service industry, and try our best to give the very best service that we can and accommodate our clients.”
Born in Wolverhampton, England, Rifkind’s early exposure to diverse cultures and languages shaped her lifelong passion for communication. After graduating from Manchester University with a degree in Russian and French Studies, she embarked on a journey that would redefine the landscape of technical translation and interpretation.
In 1978, Rifkind immigrated to the United States, where she quickly established herself as a woman of exceptional talent and determination. In 1981, she founded UTT, a small but mighty company that would soon become a powerhouse in the translation and interpretation industry.
Rifkind’s entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond UTT. In 1990, she founded the Soviet-American Chamber of Commerce, fostering international collaboration and enhancing interpretation services between the two nations. Her visionary leadership and expertise in the field have earned her recognition from world leaders, including Presidents George H.W. Bush, Vladimir Putin, and Heydar Aliyev of Azerbaijan.
Throughout her career, Rifkind has been instrumental in expanding UTT’s global reach. The company has established offices in Moscow, London, and Baku, serving clients in diverse industries and languages. UTT’s commitment to excellence has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including multiple WorldQuest victories and recognition as one of the fastest-growing businesses in Houston.
