The Californer - Interpreters Unlimited CEO Sayed Ali Named Finalist for CEO of the Year

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Sayed Ali, CEO of Interpreters Unlimited, has been named a finalist for the 2025 San Diego Business Journal CEO of the Year Award, honoring his leadership, business success, and dedication to community impact and innovation.

SAN DIEGO - Californer -- Interpreters Unlimited (IU) is proud to announce that its CEO, Sayed Ali, has been named a finalist for the San Diego Business Journal's 2025 CEO of the Year Award. This recognition honors leaders who demonstrate outstanding business expertise, leadership, and community impact in the San Diego region.

Ali, an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader, has spent decades building and growing successful companies. After immigrating to the U.S. from India in 1966 to pursue a degree in electronic engineering, he gained extensive corporate management experience before launching his first business, Creative Host Services, which he later grew into a NASDAQ-listed company and sold for $43 million in 2004.

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In 2007, Ali acquired Interpreters Unlimited and transformed it into a nationally recognized leader in language services. Under his leadership, IU has expanded its offerings across the country, providing critical interpretation and translation services in over 200 languages. His forward thinking approach has helped IU implement cutting-edge technology, including the proprietary IU Match-Connect system, which streamlines interpreter matching and appointment management for clients.

Beyond business success, Ali is deeply committed to fostering a positive workplace culture at IU, promoting inclusivity, mentorship, and professional development. His leadership style prioritizes collaboration and innovation, encouraging employees to share ideas and drive meaningful change. His decision to implement a permanent remote work option has increased both productivity and employee satisfaction.

Ali's contributions extend far beyond the business world. He is a dedicated philanthropist, actively supporting organizations such as the Ronald McDonald House, Endangered Species International, Survivors of Torture International, and the Alzheimer's & Dementia Resource Center. As an advisory board member for PATH San Diego, he plays a key role in efforts to combat homelessness, advocating for housing, healthcare, and outreach initiatives. Through his involvement with SBA SCORE and the Chairman's Roundtable, he has mentored countless aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them navigate challenges and build successful businesses.

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"Being recognized as a finalist for CEO of the Year is truly an honor," said Ali. "Leadership is about empowering others, fostering innovation, and giving back to the community. I'm grateful to be part of a company and a city that values these principles."

The finalists for the CEO of the Year Award are featured in the April 14th edition of the San Diego Business Journal. For more information about Interpreters Unlimited, please visit https://www.interpreters.com or call 800-726-9891.