Current Opportunities at Adams & Adams

Description

• The Marketing Communications and Digital Specialist is responsible for leading and executing an integrated marketing communications and digital strategy for the firm.  The incumbent will drive firm-wide communications (beyond just the marketing department), ensuring a consistent and positive image of the business both internally and externally. 
• Working closely with the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and other senior stakeholders, the Specialist will provide strategic direction for all digital marketing initiatives and communications campaigns, manage a small team of marketing staff, oversee external partners (including PR and digital agencies), and take ownership of budgeting and performance metrics for marketing communications. 
• A key focus of this role is to leverage internal and external communications, such as thought leadership articles, client newsletters, press releases, and social media content, to support the firm’s business development objectives, drive brand awareness, generate quality leads, and enhance client engagement. 
• By combining leadership, creative communication expertise, and data-driven digital marketing skills, the Marketing Communications and Digital Specialist will ensure that marketing and communications efforts effectively contribute to the firm’s growth and strategic goals. The specialist is expected to monitor and analyse the effectiveness of all initiatives, continually optimising strategies to meet or exceed set metrics while managing resources and budgets efficiently.

COMPETENCIES & KEY ACTIVITIES

Leadership & Strategic Vision

• Strategic Planning: lead the development of the firm’s integrated marketing communications and digital marketing strategy, in alignment with overall vision and business goals.
• Strategic Initiatives: identify and champion new opportunities (e.g., adoption of emerging digital platforms, innovative communication campaigns) to enhance the firm’s brand presence and support revenue growth.
• Decision-Making: set priorities for marketing communications initiatives and make data-driven decisions to optimise campaign outcomes and ROI.

Team & Vendor Management

• Leadership of Team: supervise, mentor, and develop junior marketing staff (e.g., Marketing Coordinator or Assistant), providing guidance, feedback, and professional development to build a high-performing team.
• Vendor Management: manage relationships with external service providers, including the firms appointed public relations agency and digital marketing agency. Set clear expectations, provide direction, and monitor performance of these vendors to ensure quality deliverables and alignment with the firm’s strategy.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: foster strong collaboration with internal departments and senior leadership, acting as the firm’s central point for communications and ensuring messaging consistency across the organisation.

Digital Marketing and Content

• Digital Campaign Oversight: oversee and contribute to all digital marketing activities (e.g., website content management, SEO/SEM/AdWords campaigns, social media management, email marketing) to drive online visibility and lead generation.
• Content Creation and Management: direct the creation of high-quality, targeted content (including articles, thought leadership pieces, press releases, social media posts, videos, internal newsletters) that enhance the firm’s brand and engage both external audiences (clients, industry stakeholders) and internal employees.
• Editorial Oversight: ensure consistency in brand voice and messaging. Review and refine content produced by the team or contributors (proofreading articles, newsletters, etc.) to maintain high standards of writing quality and adherence to branding guidelines.

Internal Communication and Events

• Firm-Wide Internal Comms: oversee the planning and delivery of internal communication across the firm (not just within the marketing department).
• Develop and implement internal communication plans to keep all staff informed and engaged, including crafting firm-wide announcements, leadership communications, and managing the internal newsletter, and other employee communication channels.
• Internal Events: lead the coordination and execution of key internal events (e.g., partner meetings, internal training sessions like “Legal Connexion” and “Adams Assembly,” and the annual year-end staff event) to ensure they are well-organised, engaging, and reinforce company culture.
• Stakeholder Engagement: collaborate with partners, practice area leaders, and other departments to source content (awards, success stories, updates) for internal communications and ensure alignment with overall firm messaging.

External Communication and Brand Management

• Public Relations & Media: serve as the primary liaison with PR agency and media outlets.  Work with firm partners and the PR company to identify newsworthy developments (e.g., major client wins, awards, landmark cases) and develop press releases, media pitches, and thought leadership columns for publication).
• Brand & Reputation Management: manage the firm’s presence on external platforms, including industry memberships and directories (e.g., Chambers, Legal 500, WIPR, WTR, MIP). Ensure all firm and individual profiles are current and compelling, highlighting recognitions and awards.
• Seek out and leverage opportunities to raise brand profile through active involvement with directory and membership platforms (events, seminars, sponsorships, etc)
• Global & Regional Outreach: Digital Marketing and Content
• Budgeting and Performance Management
• Budget Ownership: develop and manage the marketing communications and digital marketing budget. Plan, allocate, and monitor spending for all related campaigns, platforms, and events. Ensure that projects are executed within budget and provide justification for expenditures, demonstrating prudent cost management.
• Metrics & Analytics: establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for digital marketing and communications initiatives (e.g., website traffic, social media engagement, lead conversion, internal newsletter engagement). Regularly track and analyse performance data (in partnership with the digital agency and using analytics tools) to assess effectiveness.
• Reporting & Optimisation: prepare and present monthly and quarterly reports on all marketing communications and digital activities. Highlight results against targets and firm objectives, and use insights to adjust strategies, campaigns, or budget allocations to continuously improve results.

Requirements

EDUCATION

• Degree/Diploma (required)
• Bachelor’s degree or national diploma in Marketing, Communications, Digital Marketing or a related field
• Post Graduate Qualification (preferred):
• Postgraduate qualification (e.g., Honors or Master’s in Marketing, Communications, Digital Marketing) or relevant professional certifications (e.g., Digital Marketing, Content Strategy, SEO/Analytics certifications). 

EXPERIENCE

• 5–7 years of progressive experience in marketing communications, digital marketing, or a related role in a corporate or professional services environment
• Leadership and Team Management - experience managing or mentoring junior marketing/communications staff and coordinating work with external vendors or agencies
• Strategic Marketing and Communications - proven ability to develop and execute multi-channel marketing campaigns, digital initiatives, and communication strategies aligned with business objectives
• Budget and Project Management - hands-on experience planning and managing marketing or communication projects, including budget management and meeting project deadlines and goals
• Business Development Collaboration - familiarity with working alongside sales or business development teams to utilise marketing communications for lead generation, client engagement, and supporting revenue growth
• Industry Background - experience in a professional services or B2B environment (e.g., law firm consulting, financial services) is highly advantageous, with an understanding of how to communicate effectively within such environments.
• Communication and Collaboration - strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with internal and external stakeholders and promote the firm's brand
• Reporting - the ability to prepare and present clear and concise reports to stakeholders
• Negotiation - strong negotiation skills to secure favourable terms with vendors and suppliers

go to method of application »

Description

• The purpose of this role is to provide comprehensive trademark secretarial, paralegal, and administrative support within the Trade Marks practice by ensuring the accurate preparation, filing, monitoring, and administration of local and foreign Trade Mark matters. The role is critical in supporting attorneys/partners through effective diary management, correspondence handling, financial administration, and compliance with Trade Mark trademark prosecution requirements.

Duties and responsibilities

• Create and maintain new Trade Mark records on Patricia
• Prepare and process Trade Mark forms, certificates, acceptance notices, and related documentation for lodgement with the Registrar
• File South African and foreign Trade Mark applications
• Capture and update Trade Mark histories accurately on electronic systems
• Communicate with search clerks at the Trade Marks Office and enter system searches 
• Type and manage search correspondence and official communications
• Create, generate, and print Trade Mark listings
• Check, monitor, and action Standing Instructions to ensure compliance with deadlines
• Draft correspondence responding to client queries, status updates and portfolio management
• Type correspondence in response to Registrar’s queries and official actions
• Report official actions to clients
• Draft routine correspondence and manage incoming and outgoing emails
• Type minutes of meetings and maintain accurate records
• Handle faxing, filing, photocopying, and general office administration
• Open files and ensure proper document control and record keeping
• Draw and manage diaries for Trade Mark files
• Effectively manage the Partner’s Outlook Inbox
• Maintain and control the Patricia Diary, ensuring critical deadlines are met
• Arrange meetings and appointments and diarise outcomes appropriately
• Attend to accounting matters including suspense items and open item listings
• Type and issue invoices, credit notes, and bills
• Manage financial aspects of the practice including work in progress (WIP), debtors, and billing records
• Ensure accurate financial tracking and timely follow‑up on outstanding accounts
• Maintain personal and partners’ diaries, including scheduling, reminders, and follow-ups
• Diarise and monitor statutory and internal deadlines to ensure compliance and timely submission of filings
• Manage incoming and outgoing emails professionally and timeously
• Handle routine queries from clients, partners, attorneys, and agents
• Provide proactive updates and ensure clear communication on file progress

Requirements
Skills and knowledge

• A methodical person with good English language skills
• Computer literate in Microsoft Word
• Typing speed of 60 wpm
• Ability to do Dictaphone typing
• Ability to work independently, to work under pressure and to use initiative
• Dealing with several matters at once
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong computer literacy in MS Word, Excel, Patricia, and CMS

Qualification/s

• A relevant tertiary qualification
• Secretarial or Paralegal Diploma (advantageous)
• University Degree (advantageous)
• Min of 7- 8 years’ relevant experience as a Secretary, preferably in an intellectual property or legal environment

go to method of application »

Description

• To manage anti-counterfeiting and trademark litigation matters from initiation to resolution, ensuring compliance with legal and procedural requirements. The role involves drafting legal documentation, coordinating enforcement actions, maintaining accurate case records, and handling urgent matters efficiently. It requires effective client communication, preparation of investigation reports, and liaison with regulatory authorities, law enforcement, and external stakeholders. Additionally, the position supports billing processes and partner diary management to ensure smooth delivery of legal services.

Duties and responsibilities

• Attend to and manage standard anti‑counterfeiting and general trademark litigation matters, including oppositions, infringements, and company name objection matters.
• Manage matters from initiation through to resolution in accordance with legal and procedural requirements.
• Prepare and draft schedules, standard affidavits, standard agreements, and related legal documentation.
• Draft civil summons, court pleadings, and default judgment applications.
• Brief Counsel as and when required.
• Prepare and issue letters of demand in line with enforcement strategies.
•  Assist in the execution of enforcement actions arising from infringement matters.
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records on the Patricia system.
• Ensure matters are properly diarised, monitored, and updated in accordance with statutory and internal deadlines.
• Deal with urgent matters promptly and efficiently.
• Ensure that all urgent tasks and deadlines are prioritised and met timeously.
• Deal skilfully and professionally with complex and advanced telephonic enquiries.
•  Provide clear and regular updates to clients on the status of matters handled on their behalf.
• Prepare monthly or quarterly client status reports.
• Conduct and/or organise trade investigations relating to counterfeit and infringing activities.
• Review investigation outcomes and prepare supporting documentation.
• Prepare draft expert and complaint affidavits for submission to SAPS and SARS.
• Liaise with the Police, CIPC, and SARS officials on all matters relating to anti‑counterfeiting and enforcement.
• Liaise with correspondent attorneys in different jurisdictions to ensure alignment and progress of matters.
• Liaise and coordinate with Sheriffs regarding writ executions.
• Assist with invoicing and the accurate recording of billable activities in accordance with firm requirements.
• Manage the Partner’s diary, including scheduling of meetings, court dates, deadlines, and follow‑up actions

Requirements
Skills and knowledge

• Strong legal drafting and technical accuracy.
• Case/matter management and deadline discipline, including urgent work.
• Investigative acumen and practical critical problem‑solving.
• High level of discretion, professionalism, and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to handle pressurised and sensitive matters.

 Qualification/s

• Matric/ National Diploma or equivalent qualification
• a relevant legal diploma/certificate with proven litigation support experience in IP/anti‑counterfeiting.
• Three years post-matric or equivalent qualification

go to method of application »

Job Purpose

• The conveyancing paralegal manages the full lifecycle of property transactions, with a focus on commercial bonds, ensuring all steps from instruction to registration are completed accurately and efficiently, while maintaining high standards of professionalism, attention to detail and client service. This role ensures seamless execution of transactions, mitigates risks and contributes to the firm’s reputation for excellence in property law.

Requirements

Key Skills, Knowledge and Competencies

• Strong understanding of conveyancing processes including transfers, bonds and cancellations.
• In-depth knowledge of commercial bond registrations and related loan documentation.
• Ability to independently manage conveyancing matters from inception to registration at the relevant Deeds Office.
• Ability to interpret loan conditions, title conditions, deeds office records and Surveyor General diagrams.
• High level of technical accuracy in drafting, reviewing and preparing conveyancing documentation.
• Strong risk awareness, including the ability to identify discrepancies and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to liaise professionally with clients, banks, attorneys and stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills to manage multiple files, deadlines and priorities.
• Team-oriented approach with strong interpersonal skills and a proactive work ethic.
• High level of accuracy with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and conveyancing systems including LexisConvey, Webconvey, Stordoc and L@W / E4.
• Excellent typing skills with a minimum speed of 45+ words per minute.

Key Responsibilities

• Acknowledge instructions, open files and conduct initial perusal and understanding of loan conditions.
• Perform deeds office and related searches and accurately interpret records.
• Initiate and maintain communication with clients and linked attorney firms throughout the transaction.
• Independently prepare loan documents for signature by clients.
• Draft and prepare conveyancing documentation, including applications, powers of attorney, waivers of preference, resolutions and conveyancer’s certificates.
• Provide weekly progress reports to clients and bankers.
• Liaise with managing agents and linked attorney firms to ensure smooth transaction progression.
• Prepare lodgement documents and attend to all lodgement arrangements.
• Ensure all loan conditions are met to facilitate successful registration at the relevant Deeds Registry.
• Manage registrations within agreed turnaround times and service level standards.
• Attend to all financial aspects of transactions, including the collection of costs and disbursements.
• Respond to and resolve accounting and financial queries related to conveyancing matters.

Education

• Matric or equivalent qualification.
• Secretarial Diploma.

Experience

• Minimum of 7+ years’ experience handling mortgage bond registrations.
• Demonstrated experience in commercial bond conveyancing matters.
• Proven ability to manage conveyancing transactions independently from inception to registration.
• Experience managing high volumes of conveyancing files with excellent typing skills.

Job Specific Competencies

• Commercial Conveyancing Expertise
• Technical Drafting and Documentation Accuracy
• Risk Management and Regulatory Compliance
• Client and Stakeholder Relationship Management
• File, Time and Process Management
• Financial Administration within Conveyancing
• System and Technology Proficiency
• Team Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing