Adam
Melling

Adam Melling is an Associate in our Employment Team and works closely with clients in a range of sectors, particularly in the sports industry, across all aspects of employment law. His work includes day-to-day HR advice, drafting and negotiating various employment-based contracts and handling litigious matters and tribunal claims.

As a key member of the firm’s Employment-Sport practice, Adam provides sports teams – in particular, football clubs – with both employment and sport-specific advice, including in respect of rules and regulations, Esports contracts and governing body endorsements for the International Sportsperson visa route. He has significant experience drafting and negotiating contracts for managers/head coaches, coaching staff and other senior staff at football clubs and his in-depth understanding of the industry ensures he gets the best results for clients on matters such as termination payments, early termination rights, bonus provisions, restrictive covenants, image rights and media clauses.

When employment relationships break down, Adam assists his clients in managing complex employee exits and any subsequent litigation, whether in the traditional courts and employment tribunals or in sports arbitration proceedings.

Adam also works closely with Sports, Commercial & Technology colleagues, regularly advising on employment and business protection considerations in supply of services agreements, such as stadium and training ground catering and stewarding and security.

When asked what he finds most rewarding about his work, Adam says, “Providing positive and pragmatic solutions for clients, especially in complex disputes and other important matters”.

Adam describes his approach as diligent, commercial and attentive. Not only does he have excellent technical legal skills, but he is pragmatic and solutions focused, providing clients with the strategic advice needed to achieve their goals. He enjoys the hands-on nature of his work and the opportunity it gives him to solve problems on a regular basis.