Governance & Policies

At the British Association of Translators and Interpreters (BATI), governance and policies form the foundation of our commitment to transparency, accountability, and excellence

Our structured governance framework ensures that the association operates effectively while aligning with its mission to support language professionals and uphold the highest standards in translation and interpretation.

Governance Structure

BATI is led by a Governance Team elected annually at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). This team consists of five key positions:

• President: Responsible for overall leadership and representation of the association.
• Vice-President: Assists the President in strategic initiatives and oversees member engagement.
• Secretary: Ensures smooth communication within BATI and manages administrative functions.
• Treasurer: Oversees financial management and ensures ethical use of resources.
• Head of Accreditation: Ensures the credibility and effectiveness of accreditation programs.

These core roles are supported by Members-at-Large, who contribute their expertise and assist with broader decision-making as part of the BATI Board. Together, the Governance Team and the Board ensure that the association remains responsive to the needs of its members and adheres to its objectives.

Key Policies

Code of Ethics

BATI’s Code of Ethics establishes the professional and ethical standards expected from members. This includes maintaining accuracy, confidentiality, and impartiality in translation and interpretation services. The Code of Ethics ensures trust between clients, members, and the wider community.

Membership Policies

BATI’s membership policies outline eligibility criteria, rights, and responsibilities of members. These policies ensure that members maintain professional integrity and actively contribute to the advancement of the language profession.

Accreditation Standards

Our accreditation policies define the requirements and processes for obtaining BATI accreditation. These policies ensure that accredited members meet industry standards and are recognized for their competence and professionalism.

Complaint and Disciplinary Procedures

BATI has established clear procedures to address complaints related to member conduct or services. These policies ensure that any concerns are handled fairly, transparently, and in accordance with ethical guidelines.

Data Protection Policy

BATI is committed to safeguarding the privacy and data of its members and stakeholders. Our data protection policy aligns with the latest regulations to ensure secure handling of all personal and professional information.

Supporting Roles

The Governance Team is supported by hired staff who manage day-to-day operations:

• Administrative Coordinator: Oversees communications, event coordination, and member support.
• Accreditation & Development Coordinator: Manages accreditation processes and professional development programs.

These roles ensure the seamless execution of BATI’s initiatives and the effective implementation of its policies.

Commitment to Transparency

BATI is committed to maintaining transparency in its governance and decision-making processes. Members are encouraged to participate in the AGM, where key decisions are made, and governance updates are shared. This collaborative approach ensures that BATI’s policies reflect the evolving needs of its members and the language industry.

Through its strong governance structure and robust policies, BATI continues to support language professionals and contribute to the advancement of translation and interpretation standards in the UK and beyond.