Melvin's varied career path (from diplomat to opera singer, banker and psychotherapist) has a broad sweep as well as common themes, which include concern for others and a desire to make a practical difference.

A former opera singer (who occasionally still performs in charity concerts), Melvin is a commercial solicitor, specialising in government contracts. He is also an accredited mediator. Previously, Melvin ran his own psychotherapy practice, providing private trauma psychotherapy to individuals, couples and organisations, specialising in post-traumatic stress and performance anxiety.

Melvin is Talent Director at Pegasus Opera Company, and was instrumental in the formation of Pegasus Talent, a new artist management agency representing classical musicians of African and Asian heritage. He also sits on the HR and Remunerations Committee (HRC), Artistic Advisory Panel (AAP), Pegasus Agency Advisory Panel (PAAP), and the Development Advisory Panel (DAP) at Pegasus.

Additionally, he is a trustee at Oxenfoord International Summer School and serves on Glyndebourne Opera’s Creative Conspirators advisory board. Melvin's interests in legal practice include contracts, procurement, art law, and cultural property law.