Paralegal Officer

Role Overview

Paralegal Officer – Trademarks & Compliance at Americana Restaurants, Group Legal & Compliance Department, based in Dubai, UAE. Reports to the Group General Counsel/Legal Director. This position requires 4–6 years of experience.

Role Purpose

The Paralegal – Trademarks & Compliance will support the management and protection of Americana Foods' trademark portfolio across the GCC, using the Group's trademark management platform and coordinating with relevant business teams and external trademark agents. The role will also provide support on compliance, governance and general legal matters.

Key Responsibilities

Trademark Management

• Coordinate the management of the Group's GCC trademark portfolio, including trademark searches, applications, registrations, renewals, recordals and related actions.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date portfolio records, documents and deadlines through the Group's trademark management platform.
• Liaise with internal business teams and external trademark agents on new brand filings, portfolio requirements and ongoing trademark matters.
• Monitor trademark watch notices and support opposition, infringement and enforcement matters, where required.
• Coordinate trademark-related documentation, including powers of attorney, notarization and legalization requirements.
• Review and process invoices from trademark agents, maintain cost records and follow up on any fee-related queries.
• Prepare periodic trademark portfolio and cost updates for the Legal team.

Compliance and Legal Support

• Support the administration of selected compliance programmes, including maintaining relevant trackers, records and supporting documents.
• Assist with compliance declarations, training, awareness activities, third-party due diligence and stakeholder follow-ups.
• Support the maintenance and periodic review of Legal and Compliance policies and procedures.
• Assist with routine governance documentation, legal research and other Legal & Compliance projects, as required.

Qualifications & Experience

• 4–6 years of relevant experience.
• Good practical understanding of trademark registration and portfolio-management processes.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage deadlines and follow up effectively with multiple stakeholders.
• Clear and professional communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and escalate issues appropriately.
• Sound judgment and discretion when handling confidential information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal or trademark management systems.
• Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory; Arabic would be an advantage.