SubscribeSign In
LeaderPortfolio
Billionaire Profile
Phil Shawe
Global Rank
#2450

Image: ConstantEditor126 | CC BY-SA 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Phil Shawe

CEO, Translation services
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.68B
Estimated based on Translation services stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
56
Source
Translation services, AI
Industry
Technology
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Phil Shawe, co-founder and co-CEO of TransPerfect, is a self-made billionaire whose net worth is primarily derived from his ownership of the translation services and AI company. Shawe's wealth source is the translation industry, where he has led TransPerfect to become the world's largest provider of language and business services. His career began with the founding of TransPerfect in 1992, and his achievements include building a global business and achieving a 99% ownership stake in the company. Shawe's leadership has been key in driving innovation and expansion within the technology and language services industry.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Phil Shawe's early life is not extensively documented publicly, but he co-founded TransPerfect in 1992 while at New York University (NYU).

Rise to Success

Shawe co-founded TransPerfect with Liz Elting, starting in a dorm room. The company expanded to become a global leader in translation and language services. A pivotal moment was the 2018 buyout of his co-founder's stake for $770 million after a court-ordered auction, which solidified his control.

Key Business Strategies

Shawe's key strategies include focusing on organic growth and strategic acquisitions. He has spearheaded TransPerfect's expansion into AI-driven language tools, securing major clients like Microsoft and U.S. government agencies. Shawe has also been a vocal advocate for corporate governance reform.

Philanthropy

Shawe has been involved in philanthropy, supporting various causes, including Girls Who Code and cancer research through the V Foundation for Cancer Research. TransPerfect has contributed nearly $2 million to cancer research initiatives.

Career Milestones

1992

Co-founded TransPerfect

Founded TransPerfect with Liz Elting while attending NYU.

2008

Named Entrepreneur of the Year

Awarded Entrepreneur of the Year for New York City by Ernst & Young.

2018

Bought out Co-founder

Acquired full ownership of TransPerfect.

2024

Revenue of $1.23 Billion

TransPerfect's revenue reached $1.23 billion.

2025

Revenue of $1.32 Billion

TransPerfect's revenue reached $1.32 billion.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Girls Who Code

Undisclosed

Served on the board of directors from 2018 to 2024.

Cancer Research

V Foundation for Cancer Research

$2M

TransPerfect contributed nearly $2 million through employee-driven events.

Compare Phil Shawe

Net Worth Face-off
Phil Shawe vs Elon Musk
Compare Wealth →
Net Worth Face-off
Phil Shawe vs Jeff Bezos
Compare Wealth →
Net Worth Face-off
Phil Shawe vs Mark Zuckerberg
Compare Wealth →