About

My name is Matthew McKay, and I’m a British translator based in Switzerland. 

I’ve been translating independently (Chinese, French, and German into English) since 2018, focusing primarily on the arts & humanities and international cooperation & development.

With my strong background in the humanities (Bachelor of Arts with Honours, University of Oxford, 2000; Master of Arts, University of Geneva, 2021), I am dedicated to helping clients in the cultural and humanitarian worlds bring their concepts, visions, and voices to the English-speaking market.

As a member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists (UK), the Institute of Translation and Interpreting (UK), and the Swiss Association of Terminologists, Translators and Interpreters, I abide by all three associations’ codes of professional conduct. I further demonstrate my commitment through ongoing professional development, which helps me to keep abreast of my specialist areas and therefore keep providing you with services that are no less than top-notch.

My commitment to ongoing professional development is my commitment to you: check out my recent learning activities

Recent professional development activities

“Talk at the Library: Taiwan’s Art and Culture Scene”, with Giada Olivotto | Asia Society Switzerland (Webinar)
“Are You Insured?”, with Sue Leschen | Chartered Institute of Linguists (Business Skills Webinar)
“Staying in Dialogue with China: Market-Oriented Reforms”, with Emeritus Professor Feng Lu | Swiss-Chinese Chamber of Commerce (Webinar)
“Arts & Culture Translation”, with Adrian Probst | Freelanceverse (Panel Discussion)
“Understanding High-Functioning Autism: Recognising Signs”, with Nat Hawley | Exceptional Individuals (Webinar)
“The Order of Things”, exhibition by artist Wim Delvoye | Geneva Museum of Art and History (Exhibition, Learning)
“Imagine Picasso”, an immersive sound-and-light exhibition on the 50th anniversary of the artist’s death | Lichthalle MAAG, Zurich (Exhibition, Learning, Networking)

My background story

It was growing up in first the German-speaking part of Switzerland and then the French-speaking part that ignited my passion for translation. Ever since my formative years, I have been immersed not just in foreign languages but in an environment in which multiple languages are commonly displayed side by side. My translation approach is informed by the typical Swiss values of my upbringing, such as precision and meticulousness, while my advanced training in the humanities ensures an ear that is attuned both to your unique challenges and to the more literary aspects of the language, where necessary. This is the skill set I put at your service, with the goal of helping you bring your English-language projects to fruition.

When I’m not working for my clients, posting translation-related blog entries, or making sure my translation business runs like a well-oiled machine, you’ll find me catching up with my reading (anything from Kafka to Confucius), experimenting in the kitchen, and enjoying quality time with friends and family.

It’ll be a pleasure to work with you and help your message reach a wider audience.

Let’s discuss your projects

“Our assistant senior editor in charge of testing considers Matthew to be one of Watching America’s “elite team,” and I could not agree more. Matthew has consistently produced sophisticated translations that add immensely to our homepage. He is reliable in meeting translation deadlines and provides immediate and enlightening responses to requests for clarification on the rare occasions editors need his help. I believe Matthew would be an asset to any group or individual that enlists his skills, as he is to Watching America.”

Helaine Schweitzer,
Senior Editor, Watching America

“Matthew impressed us not just with his language skills, but also with his availability and his conscientiousness in terms of contextual research. We'd like to extend our warmest thanks to Matthew for his service and professionalism, and can recommend his services without hesitation!”

Cyrille Heimo,
Owner, Chalet La Maya

“I have had the pleasure of working with Matthew on some projects and I can confidently say that he is an exceptional linguist. Not only is he knowledgeable and fluent in both English and Chinese, but he is always responsible for his work. In addition, Matthew is a very reliable, trustworthy, and helpful person, and is always on time with his work. His excellent qualities make him a valuable asset to any team, so I highly recommend Matthew for any linguistic projects.”

Lotty Huang,
Project Manager, Clearly Local