Well-organized Human Resources professional bringing 17 years of superior performance in fast-paced HR environments. Communicative and decisive with focus on improving and retaining quality in HR administration, payroll and recruiting.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Trademark Paralegal
Fitch Even Tabin And Flannery LLP
09.2023 - Current
Collaborated with attorneys to draft responses to USPTO office actions, resulting in successful registration of trademarks.
Improved communication between legal team and clients by providing regular updates on progress of ongoing matters.
Maintained accurate records of client correspondence, legal documents, and deadlines through well-organized filing system.
Researched statutes, decisions, legal articles, and codes.
Developed strong relationships with foreign associates to facilitate efficient handling of international trademark filings and disputes.
Managed portfolio of hundreds of trademarks, closely monitoring status updates and upcoming deadlines for action.
Conducted comprehensive trademark searches to identify potential conflicts and minimize infringement risks.
Assisted clients with protecting their intellectual property rights by preparing and filing domestic and international trademark applications.
Communicated pertinent information to clients via phone, email, and mail.
Exercised leadership capabilities by successfully motivating and inspiring others.
Implemented biweekly team meetings to foster team cohesiveness and review deadlines to ensure timely USPTO filings and client/attorney communications.
Prepared and filed U.S. trademark prosecution and maintenance documents electronically with the USPTO including but not limited to: applications, office action responses, extensions of time, statements of use, affidavits, renewals, assignments and powers of attorney.
Prepared and filed trademark documents with WIPO including but not limited to applications for International Registration, responses to Notices of Irregularity, renewals, assignments and powers of attorney.
Work with and correspond with foreign counsel in connection with the prosecution and maintenance of trademark applications/registrations outside of the United States.
Assist with trademark enforcement matters including working with and attorneys regarding potential oppositions, cancellations and cease & desist letters. Including preparing and filing Notice of Oppositions, Petition for Cancellations, Motions for Extension of Time.
Maintain and update TTAB oppositions and cancellation deadlines.
Office Administrator
Fitch, Even, Tabin And Flannery, LLC
06.2006 - 09.2023
Contributed to positive work environment by fostering strong working relationships among colleagues.
Aided in employee onboarding through training new hires on office procedures, software applications, and company policies.
Facilitated smooth operations by maintaining updated inventory records, anticipating supply needs, and placing timely orders for essential materials.
Scheduled conference rooms, prepared agendas, and maintained calendars to prepare for meetings and events.
Evaluated employee performance and conveyed constructive feedback to improve skills.
Assisted in processing of timesheets by auditing timesheets and payroll records for accuracy.
Proficient in HRIS (ADP).
Oversaw maintenance of office facilities and equipment by collaborating with and inspecting work of repair contractors.
Assisted in event planning efforts for company gatherings, conferences, or workshops to enhance employee engagement and networking opportunities.
Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
Cultivated positive rapport with fellow employees to boost company morale and promote employee retention.
Managed annual open enrollment process, coordinating efforts across sister offices to ensure smooth experience for all employees. Implemented a paperless open enrollment process to simplify benefit enrollment for entire firm. Managed continuous enrollment processes.
Assisted employees with benefits-related inquiries, ensuring prompt resolutions and increased satisfaction levels.
Ensured timely processing of life event changes, diligently updating employee records as needed.
Facilitated seamless onboarding experiences for new hires by providing comprehensive benefits orientation sessions.
Collaborated with Managing Partner and Executive Director to design competitive benefits packages, attracting high-quality talent.
Managed accurate records of employee time off, leave balances, and attendance for precise pay calculation.
Sent weekly reminders for employees to complete and submit time sheets before deadline.
Maintained confidentiality of employee records and payroll information.
Planned all office activities and annual holiday party.
Conducted thorough investigations into workplace issues, resolving conflicts promptly and professionally.
Educated employees on company policy and kept employee handbook current.
Interviewed potential hires, negotiated salaries and benefits and performed reference checks.
Self-motivated, with strong sense of personal responsibility.
Assisted in development of emergency preparedness plans, ensuring staff was trained in proper procedures during critical situations.
Coordinated with Executive Director smooth transition during office relocation by planning logistics and overseeing move process from start to finish.
Provided support and services related to mail and deliveries.
Served as a trusted advisor to employees at all levels of the organization regarding career development, workplace policies, and conflict resolution.
Trademark Paralegal
Fitch Even Tabin And Flannery, LLC
01.1997 - 06.2006
Enhanced trademark research efficiency by developing organized system for managing search results and documentation.
Developed strong relationships with foreign associates to facilitate efficient handling of international trademark filings and disputes.
Streamlined trademark application process by creating detailed checklists and guidelines, ensuring timely submissions.
Kept up-to-date on changes in trademark law and practice by attending industry conferences, seminars, and continuing education courses.
Communicated pertinent information to clients via phone, email, and mail.
Managed portfolio of hundreds of trademarks, closely monitoring status updates and upcoming deadlines for action.
Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
Education
Associate of Arts - Business Management
Triton College
River Grove, IL
05.2025
High School Diploma -
Wells Community Academy
Chicago, IL
05.1989
Skills
Reliability
Excellent Communication
Organizational Skills
Conflict Resolution
Certification
Society of Human Resources Management - Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)