Journey from Temp to Legal Leader
Melanie Hall’s career journey is a testament to perseverance, self-belief, and seizing opportunities. What began as a one-week temporary role at ChipsAway transformed into a 26-year career within the Franchise Brands group.
When Franchise Brands acquired ChipsAway in 2008, Melanie Hall’s growing involvement in contracts led the Directors to encourage her legal training. She developed a strong interest in franchising law, balancing a part-time law degree with her role, followed by a master’s in Commercial Law. Her expertise proved invaluable during the IPO process, where she managed franchise agreements and national contracts.
Seeking her next challenge, Melanie passed the Solicitor’s Qualifying Exams (SQE1 and SQE2) on her first attempt and was admitted to the Solicitors Register in August 2024. She was then promoted to Group Head of Legal.
Overcoming Prejudice and Proving Her Worth
Like many women in the workplace, Melanie encountered gender biases early in her career. Before joining ChipsAway and Franchise Brands, she often felt the pressure to prove herself in environments where women were not always taken as seriously. However, as she developed her expertise and gained experience, her confidence grew. The strong support from Franchise Brands further fuelled her professional development, allowing her to rise through the ranks.
The Power of Inspiration and Support
Melanie draws inspiration from a close friend who pursued law as a mature student while balancing work and family life. This friend’s encouragement and belief in Melanie’s abilities played a crucial role in her journey. Additionally, colleagues who saw her potential, even before she fully recognised it herself, helped shape her career.
Proud Milestones and Defining Success
For Melanie, every exam she passed marked a significant achievement, reinforcing her growth and confirming her capabilities. Her definition of success is simple yet profound proving to herself that she could accomplish anything when given the opportunity.
Changing the Landscape for Women
While Melanie remains humble about her impact, she hopes that her journey can inspire other women to develop their skills and pursue their aspirations. “With commitment and the right support, anything is possible.”
Advice for Aspiring Female Leaders
Melanie’s advice to women aiming for leadership is clear: “Never hesitate to ask for learning opportunities. Whether it’s a short training course or a multi-year degree, continuous education provides a deeper understanding of business operations and fosters professional growth”. She also stresses “the importance of standing up for oneself, not through confrontation, but by calmly and confidently advocating for change.”
Lessons Learned: The Power of Advocacy
One of the most powerful lessons Melanie has learned is the importance of standing her ground. “Speaking up doesn’t have to be combative; rather, it’s about articulating your position thoughtfully and persuasively. Whether advocating for process improvements at work or pushing for personal career progression, “clear and composed communication is key.”
A Journey of Hard Work and Gratitude
Reflecting on her career, Melanie acknowledges the challenges of balancing full-time work, studying, and family life. “While the road was demanding, I really feel I have embraced every opportunity to learn and grow. I’m proud of what I have achieved, knowing I’ve made the most of every chance I was given.”
