Chief Operations Officer
Melissa Cunningham
About
Biography & Overview
Melissa is the Chief Operations Officer at Adriaans Attorneys and has 19 years of experience in human resource and operations management. With a BCom Honours in Human Resource Management, she oversees the firm's Business Support Services department, including Human Resource and Talent Management, Marketing and Business Development, Financial Accounting, and Facilities, ITC, and Infrastructure units. Her role is vital in promoting the firm’s culture and core values, ensuring alignment with the firm’s vision while supporting its human capital. Melissa is a strategic partner to the leadership team and manages a diverse portfolio of attorneys and business support personnel. Her philosophy that nothing worthwhile comes without hard work, determination, and eagerness for success drives her professional endeavours.
Outside of work, Melissa values time with her family and enjoys learning new things and creating lasting memories. She is actively involved in volunteering at her local parish, St Johns Anglican Church, and enjoys mentoring juniors in their professional growth.
Education
Client Liaison Officer
Pamela Pote
About
Biography & Overview
Pamela serves as the Client Liaison Officer at Adriaans Attorneys, where her expertise in communication, negotiation, relationship management, marketing, and business development ensures exceptional client service. Registered with the PPRA, Pamela fosters strong relationships and enhances client engagement through strategic business initiatives.
Outside of work, Pamela enjoys spending quality time with her children, whether cooking, baking, or hiking. She also dedicates time to teaching in her Sunday school ministry, attends music concerts, and catches up on her favourite TV series. Her ideal unwind routine involves a home-cooked meal, a good series, and a relaxing afternoon walk.
Education
Human Resource Administrator
Zanele Gom
About
Biography & Overview
Zanele is the Human Resource Administrator at Adriaans Attorneys and specialises in various HR functions such as Payroll, Leave and Recruitment Administration, Selection and Placement, and Performance Management. Her role extends to managing Employee Wellness, Exit Interviews, the Vacation Programme, and Training Administration. She ensures smooth operations within the firm and fosters a supportive environment for staff and candidate attorneys alike. She lives by the philosophy that "Thoughts become things," emphasising the power of positive thinking in personal and professional realms.
Outside of the office, Zanele enjoys spending time with friends and family and exploring new cuisines at different restaurants and wine farms. She is also an enthusiastic cook, often hosting gatherings to test new recipes. Her ideal unwinding routine includes watching movies, catching up on series, or relaxing with a long bubble bath.
Education
Finance Administrator
Andrea Dreyer
About
Biography & Overview
Andrea is the Financial Administrator at Adriaans Attorneys, where she is integral to the day-to-day financial operations of the firm. Her areas of expertise include preparing financial reports and statements, as well as processing invoices and payments. Andrea's commitment to accountability is reflected in her handling of financial administration, promoting a culture of integrity, trust, and growth within the firm.
Outside of work, Andrea cherishes the moments she spends with her family and close friends. A self-professed book lover, she loves visiting new bookstores and enjoying a cup of coffee. Her unwind routine after a long day involves taking a bath, enjoying her supper, and then settling down with a nice cup of coffee to watch her favourite sitcom.
Education
Marketing and Business Development Administrator
Shae De La Cruz
About
Biography & Overview
Shae is the Marketing and Business Development Administrator at Adriaans Attorneys, where her expertise in Marketing Strategies, Campaigns, Content Creation, Digital Marketing, and Brand Awareness drives the firm's visibility and client engagement. Shae’s innovative approach to marketing has earned her the award for the best technological solution at the AFDA awards. She operates under the personal philosophy that "life is what you make it to be, not how others want to determine it for you," which fuels her passion and creativity in her professional endeavours.
Outside of work, Shae enjoys quality time with her family, visiting the beach, exploring new restaurants and coffee shops, and going shopping. Her unwind routine involves decompressing after a busy day and afterwards, she enjoys catching up with her family.
Education
Finance
Lesley-Ann Beukes
About
Biography & Overview
Lesley-Ann is the Bookkeeper at Adriaans Attorneys, where she specialises in Financial Management and Financial Reporting. With an eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy, Lesley-Ann plays an important role in maintaining the firm’s financial health through precise bookkeeping and reporting practices. Her philosophy is to strive not just for success, but to be of value every day, guiding her interactions and contributions both professionally and personally.
Outside of work, Lesley-Ann loves reading and cherishes time with her family. She enjoys engaging in various games such as dominoes, monopoly, 30 seconds, card games, and charades, emphasising the importance of spending time with loved ones. Lesley-Ann’s leisure time is often filled with laughter, which constantly reminds her of the joy and connection that come from shared experiences.
Education
Receptionist
Yoemna Johaar
About
Biography & Overview
Yoemna is the welcoming face at Adriaans Attorneys, serving as the Receptionist who ensures all clients are greeted professionally upon their arrival. Her responsibilities include managing the reception area, diarising board meetings, and handling the opening of all litigation and transfer files, making her a vital first point of contact within the firm. She lives by the philosophy to "Start each day with gratitude, practice kindness, and end it with a peaceful heart," which she embodies in both her professional and personal life.
Outside of work, Yoemna cherishes time spent with her family and children. She enjoys walks in the forest, and by the seaside, and loves the tranquillity of nature. Yoemna likes soft classical jazz music and cooking, making her home a safe and joyous space. Her unwind routine includes prayer, a good dinner, and a restful, peaceful evening.
Education
Facilities Manager
Shireen Paulus
About
Biography & Overview
Shireen is the Facilities Manager at Adriaans Attorneys, where she oversees all office operations, serves as Tender Administrator, and manages dealings with suppliers. Her role is critical in providing business support and ensuring that the firm’s facilities run smoothly and efficiently. Shireen lives by the motto, "Don't be a problem, be a solution," which she applies diligently in both her professional and personal life to foster a positive and proactive environment.
Outside of work, Shireen enjoys the beauty of the outdoors, whether it's a visit to the local park or spending quality time with her children. A devout churchgoer and strong believer in her faith, she values spiritual fulfilment and community connection. She also loves to organise girls’ nights out and her unwind routine is straightforward and relaxing.
Education
Executive Assistant to the MD
Rayana Kamish
About
Biography & Overview
Rayana is the Executive Assistant to the firm's Managing Director and is primarily responsible for providing logistical support and office co-ordination to the firm, ensuring the implementation of appropriate processors and systems. Her experience includes domestic and international travel coordination, business development, human resources, and assisting the Board of Directors, including meeting coordination and document preparation.
Rayana is a member of the firm’s Marketing Committee, as well as the Corporate Governance and Staff Wellness teams where she provides invaluable insights and contributions.
Education
About
Biography & Overview
Codesha is the Facilities Support Assistant at Adriaans Attorneys, where she is integral in maintaining the office environment and providing refreshments to both staff and clients.
Known for her vibrant work ethic and adaptability, Codesha excels in managing her responsibilities even under pressure, ensuring the office runs smoothly and efficiently. Her warm and friendly demeanour makes her a familiar and welcoming presence in the office, often being the first point of contact for clients, enhancing their experience with personal attention and care. Codesha's role is crucial in supporting the daily operations and positive atmosphere at Adriaans Attorneys.
Education
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