Lesley Viet
I have over 30 years of experience in languages and business communication, encompassing academic study, international corporate communications, education, copywriting and interpreting.
I am a British national and a native English speaker. I have lived and worked in London, Paris, Copenhagen and Stockholm and therefore have a deep appreciation of the dynamics of working cross-culturally.
I speak French fluently, having studied French at university and worked in Paris for several years on multiple occasions. I have a Masters Degree in Interpreting (French-English). I also speak Danish and have a good grasp of Swedish, German and Spanish.
I began coaching French executives in 2016 in direct response to a demand for English language training among French entrepreneurs who wished to pitch start-ups to an international audience. This led to me working with corporate executives who were impressed by the energy and fluency they observed in my clients’ presentations.
My job as a language coach is always evolving. I draw on my broad professional experience as a marketing communications executive, copywriter, language teacher and interpreter in order to offer my clients the most effective sessions according to their own personal level, objectives and personality. I am thrilled to be able to use this experience to help others achieve their full potential in public speaking in English.
Professional experience
Executive language coach, interpreter and copywriter (LVIS) in Paris and London 2016 to date
French teacher at Marymount International School, London (IB Diploma) 2012 – 2014
English language coach for executives in Copenhagen (Captive Audience) 2006 – 2010
Freelance copywriter for English language publications in Stockholm 2003 – 2006
Marketing Communications Executive in London and Paris, Reuters Ltd 1990 – 2000
Education
Master’s Degree (MA) in Interpreting (with Distinction), University of Surrey, UK 2016
Post Graduate Degree (PGCE) in Modern Languages Teaching (French) at Secondary School Level, ages 11 – 18, St. Mary’s University, Twickenham, UK 2012
Joint Bachelor’s Degree (BA) in French and Business Studies (Distinction), University of Hull, UK 1990
Membership of professional affiliations
Member of Institute of Translation and Interpreting and the Chartered Institute of Linguists