Marieke De Gaye

Work History

P/A & Legal Assistant

Henry Gouws Attorney

07.2024 - 11.2024

Assist with litigation, commercial, estates, and transfers
Manage emails, file organization, and company expenses
Maintained strict confidentiality, protecting sensitive client information as required by legal ethics and regulations.
Improved communication between attorneys and clients by scheduling meetings, providing status updates, and relaying critical information promptly.
Responded to client inquiries, providing accurate legal advice and offering assistance.

Real Estate Agent & Conveyancing (worked From Home

AIDA Real Estate & Michelle Kruger Attorneys

02.2023 - 11.2023

Managed conveyancing files from instruction receipt to final accounts, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery.
Worked remotely using LexisNexis to handle transfer files while actively cold calling to secure additional business.
Oversaw property sales, client communication, and marketing initiatives to drive business growth.
Negotiated and facilitated real estate transactions, ensuring seamless processes for buyers and sellers.
Provided clients with tailored advice on market conditions, property values, and decision-making strategies.
Assisted first-time homebuyers through pre-approval to closing, simplifying the process and ensuring satisfaction.
Advertised properties through digital platforms, social media, and real estate listings to maximize exposure.
Maintained client relationships through networking, follow-ups, and personalized consultations to encourage repeat business and referrals.
Conducted comprehensive market research to offer accurate insights into pricing strategies and trends.
Acted as a liaison between buyers and sellers, ensuring smooth communication and positive experiences for all parties.
Fostered relationships with mortgage brokers, attorneys, and other professionals to streamline transactions.
Developed compelling property listings highlighting key features to attract prospective buyers.
Adapted sales strategies based on market research data to achieve optimal outcomes.
Maintained current knowledge of zoning regulations and industry trends to provide valuable insights.
Attended professional development seminars to stay updated on best practices and enhance client service delivery.

Manageress

Thaba'Nkw Bushveld Inn

03.2018 - 02.2022

Managed a lodge with 54 rooms, an 80-seater restaurant, and a high-traffic bar with pool tables.
Oversaw all lodge operations, including bookings, reservations, housekeeping, kitchen, restaurant, bar, and garden maintenance in collaboration with the Farm Manager and a team of 20 staff members.
Controlled stock and procurement for kitchen, bar, housekeeping, linen, room supplies, and décor.
Planned and coordinated events, conferences, and weddings, including client meetings, menu planning, and décor arrangements to ensure satisfaction.
Managed financial operations, including month-end accounts, daily cash-ups, and budgeting.
Handled HR functions, including staff training, development, and managing CCMA cases.
Operated autonomously, managing the lodge as my own due to the owner’s absence, making critical operational and strategic decisions.
Earned multiple accolades from travel agencies, including "Best Establishment," "Best Value for Money," and "Best Pet-Friendly Establishment," among others.
Fostered strong client relationships, creating a "home away from home" experience, resulting in repeat business and a family-like atmosphere.
Demonstrated innovative thinking during the lockdown by proactively identifying opportunities to sustain operations and retain staff.
Secured a contract with a local mining company to re-purpose the lodge as a quarantine facility, ensuring compliance with government regulations.
Managed a rotation of 40 contractors every two weeks, overseeing daily temperature checks and adherence to quarantine protocols.
Coordinated with a dietician to plan and provide three balanced meals per day for contractors, maintaining high standards of service and care.
Successfully restructured lodge operations to align with legal requirements, converting the lodge into designated quarantine sections.
Maintained operational continuity during a challenging period, contributing to the financial stability and reputation of the lodge.
Achieved a threefold increase in revenue during the COVID-19 pandemic, surpassing the lodge's 20-year financial records.
Secured all necessary legal documentation to keep the business operational during lockdown, ensuring compliance with regulations.
Implemented innovative strategies to adapt the lodge's operations, resulting in sustained business activity and financial success.
Enabled staff to return to work, maintaining team morale and productivity during a challenging period.
Earned the owner's trust and recognition for exceptional leadership and problem-solving during the crisis.
Managed and motivated employees to be productive and engaged in work.

Para-Legal / P.A.

TLI Attorneys

01.2013 - 01.2018

Senior Paralegal responsible for handling approximately 150 transfer files from start to finish, ensuring exceptional service to clients and agents to foster repeat business.
Managed the entire transfer process, including client interactions, agent coordination, and document preparation, to streamline operations and meet deadlines.
Assisted with bond registrations, occasionally supporting ABSA Bonds to ensure seamless transactions.
Organized and maintained legal conveyancing documents, files, and correspondence to enhance case efficiency and accuracy.
Streamlined client communication by promptly addressing inquiries and providing professional support throughout the process.
Strengthened firm-client relationships through empathetic, confidential, and professional interactions during meetings and phone calls.
Maintained updated client contact information, ensuring accurate communication and timely updates on transfer progress.
Collaborated with other paralegal to complete shared tasks efficiently and on schedule.
Performed cost-effective legal research using platforms such as E4, and GhostConvey, and Practice, saving firm resources.
Drafted and prepared all conveyancing documents, including offers to purchase, leases, and property agreements, ensuring compliance and precision.
Coordinated office functions, including client relations, to maintain a professional and organized environment.

Guesthouse/Lodge Manager

Balke Toe

01.2012 - 01.2013

Managed the overall operations of the lodge and guesthouse, including two kitchens, a bar, events, and functions, which later also included a 4x4 track event on the farm.
Oversaw guesthouse operations, catering primarily to long-term contractors with inclusive services such as three daily meals and laundry.
Ensured the laundry services met high standards in washing, ironing, and folding.
Supervised and trained staff to maintain exceptional standards of service, cleanliness, and guest satisfaction.
Conducted stocktaking, budgeting, and procurement for kitchen and bar operations, ensuring cost-efficiency and adequate supply levels.
Provided hands-on assistance in the kitchen and bar during peak periods to maintain smooth operations.
Coordinated events and functions, ensuring seamless execution and client satisfaction.

Para-Legal Conveyancing / P.A.

Bezuidenhout Van Zyl Inc Attorneys

06.1997 - 09.2012

Managed the conveyancing department, overseeing transfers, bonds with various Banks at that stage, as well as Nedbank PIP transfers.
Operated as a senior paralegal, handling files independently, with the conveyancer only required for document signing prior to lodgement.
Built and maintained strong relationships with agents and bankers, becoming their preferred point of contact for all conveyancing matters.
Trained junior staff transitioning into conveyancing roles, guiding them through processes from receptionist duties to bond cancellations, bonds, and ultimately transfers.
Drafted contracts and lease agreements as required to support client needs.
Organized and coordinated corporate functions and client engagement events, both at the office and external venues.

Owner

Mickey’s Farmhouse Nursery School

02.1994 - 02.1997

Established and converted a property into a fully operational nursery school, designing classrooms, playgrounds, and creating a farmyard atmosphere with ducks, chickens, and a miniature pig.
Installed engaging playground equipment, including tractors, and cultivated a vegetable garden to enhance the educational experience.
Managed classes catering to children from 3 months to after-care, providing a nurturing and stimulating environment.
Prepared nutritious meals for children and provided homework assistance for after-care students.
Maintained high cleanliness and safety standards across all facilities.
Directed day-to-day business operations, ensuring efficiency and excellence in service delivery.
Built strong relationships with parents, fostering trust and generating repeat business and referrals.
Supervised daily operations, ensuring caregivers and teachers completed tasks with precision and care.
Negotiated supplier contracts to achieve cost savings while maintaining quality.
Oversaw financial management, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax compliance.
Conducted regular market analyses to maintain a competitive edge in the early education sector.
Mentored and trained staff on best practices to promote growth and maintain high standards in every classroom.
Recruited, trained, and managed a dedicated team committed to delivering exceptional childcare and education services.
Improved students'' reading and writing skills by incorporating engaging, age-appropriate literature into lesson plans.
Contributed to a safe, nurturing learning environment for all children by consistently enforcing school policies and procedures.
Increased overall student participation in class discussions by creating a welcoming and inclusive classroom atmosphere.
Assessed student progress regularly, using both informal observations and formal assessments to inform instruction and provide timely feedback to families.
Encouraged creativity among students by integrating arts-based activities into daily lessons.
Supported children''s social-emotional development through the implementation of positive behavior management strategies.
Promoted physical health and wellness among students by incorporating movement-based activities into daily routines.
Instructed children in health and personal habits, such as eating, resting, and toileting.
Sanitized toys and play equipment each day to maintain safety and cleanliness.
Gathered materials and resources to prepare for lessons and activities.
Taught hand washing and proper use of utensils to promote good hygiene and etiquette habits.
Organized and supervised large and small group activities.

Owner

Barcelos Flamed Chicken

08.1993 - 02.1994

Opened and managed a takeaway and sit-down restaurant franchise, overseeing all operations from inception to daily management.
Directed staff in food preparation, service, and overall operations to maintain high-quality standards.
Developed and optimized menu offerings based on customer feedback to drive sales and repeat business.
Managed financial operations, including stock ordering, inventory control, daily cash-ups, bookkeeping, VAT, and tax paperwork.
Implemented inventory management systems to minimize waste and control costs effectively.
Supervised payroll, scheduling, and employee training, promoting cost-efficient and productive staffing practices.
Built strong relationships with vendors to ensure a consistent supply of quality ingredients at competitive prices.
Ensured compliance with health department regulations, maintaining a clean and safe environment for staff and patrons.
Cultivated a positive dining atmosphere by maintaining an inviting and sanitary establishment.
Developed and executed marketing strategies, including successful promotional campaigns, to increase customer traffic and brand visibility.
Launched special events and promotions to boost sales and engage the local community.
Recruited, trained, and motivated staff to ensure peak performance and high-quality service.
Streamlined kitchen operations and back-of-house processes for improved efficiency and reduced preparation times without compromising quality.
Negotiated favorable contracts with suppliers, reducing overall operational costs and increasing profitability.
Monitored equipment and facilities for proper maintenance and compliance with regulations.
Addressed escalated customer concerns promptly, achieving high levels of satisfaction and fostering long-term loyalty.
Reduced inaccuracies in transactions through meticulous record-keeping and cash-handling procedures.
Maintained strong client relationships, generating repeat business and referrals through excellent service delivery.

Owner

Why Waste New and Secondhand Dealer

06.1990 - 07.1993

Conducted market research in Scottburgh to identify business opportunities and opened a new and secondhand clothing and furniture store, which turned out to be a huge success.
Managed all aspects of the business, including sourcing and purchasing stock through auctions and other channels.
Established and maintained accurate pricing strategies to ensure profitability and competitive market positioning.
Handled bookkeeping, financial management, and compliance with tax and legal requirements.
Developed strong relationships with customers, resulting in repeat business, referrals, and long-term loyalty.
Oversaw daily operations, ensuring efficient task completion and a high standard of customer service.
Maintained accurate inventory records, ensuring essential supplies were available to meet customer demands.
Designed and implemented creative window displays to attract customers and drive sales.
Ensured a clean, organized, and professional store environment to enhance customer satisfaction.
Tracked and documented repair projects and special orders, maintaining detailed records for operational efficiency.
Provided exceptional service by offering personalized assistance and solutions tailored to customer needs.

Conveyancing Para-Legal Transfers / Bonds

Bowman Gilfillan Inc Attorneys

01.1980 - 04.1990

Managed the conveyancing department, attending to and drafting all documents from start to end in transfers and bonds
Operated as a senior paralegal, handling files independently, with the conveyancer only required for document signing prior to lodgement.
Built and maintained strong relationships with agents and bankers.
Drafted contracts and lease agreements as required to support client needs.
Coordinated with caterers for office meals and corporate functions
Streamlined communication between clients, bankers and agents managing their inquiries promptly and professionally.
Enhanced case efficiency by organizing and maintaining conveyancing documents, files, and correspondence.
Contributed to firm-client relationship building through professional interactions with clients during meetings or phone calls, conveying empathy while maintaining confidentiality.
Maintained and updated organized client contact information to keep in touch with clients and provide updates on cases on a weekly basis.
Liaised with other paralegals to complete common tasks on schedule.

Summary

Overview

Work History

P/A & Legal Assistant

Real Estate Agent & Conveyancing (worked From Home

Manageress

Para-Legal / P.A.

Guesthouse/Lodge Manager

Para-Legal Conveyancing / P.A.

Owner

Owner

Owner

Conveyancing Para-Legal Transfers / Bonds

Education

Some College (No Degree) - Estate Agent

High School Diploma -

Skills

Certification

Accomplishments

Additional Information

Work Availability

Affiliations

Work Preference

Work Type

Work Location

Important To Me

Software

Languages

Interests

Timeline

References

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