Are you an experienced Commercial Solicitor looking to take the next step in your career?
Do you want the opportunity to shape and grow a commercial offering within a progressive and ambitious law firm?
Looking for a role where your expertise will truly make an impact, rather than being lost in a large corporate structure?
Gillespie Recruitment are delighted to be working with a growing and forward-thinking legal firm to recruit a Commercial Solicitor for their Sunderland office.
This is an exciting opportunity for a driven and commercially minded solicitor to play a key role in expanding a developing department. You’ll work closely with a strong client base of SMEs, investors, and owner-managed businesses, delivering practical, high-quality legal advice.
With a strong presence across the North of England and a reputation for client-focused service, this role offers the chance to join a firm where your voice is heard, your work is valued, and your career can genuinely progress.
The Role
As a Commercial Solicitor, you will handle a varied caseload of commercial matters while supporting the growth and development of the firm’s commercial offering.
You will work on a wide range of business and property-related legal matters, building strong client relationships and delivering clear, commercially sound advice.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Legal Work
- Manage a diverse caseload of commercial matters
- Draft, review, and negotiate commercial contracts
- Provide strategic legal advice to businesses and investors
- Support clients with business operations and transactions
Client Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients
- Deliver a high standard of client care and communication
- Act as a trusted advisor to SMEs and owner-managed businesses
Department Growth
- Contribute to the development of the commercial department
- Identify opportunities for new business and client growth
- Support the firm’s expansion within the local market
Collaboration
- Work closely with colleagues across property and other legal disciplines
- Contribute to a collaborative and supportive team environment
About You
Essential Skills & Experience
- Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales
- 4+ years PQE
- Strong experience in commercial and/or corporate law
- Excellent understanding of commercial contracts and business operations
- Experience working with SMEs or owner-managed businesses
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a team
Personal Attributes
- Commercially minded with a proactive approach
- Confident in building and managing client relationships
- Driven, motivated, and career-focused
- Professional with a strong attention to detail
- Passionate about delivering high-quality legal services
Desirable Experience
- Exposure to commercial property or property investment matters
- Experience supporting growing or entrepreneurial businesses
- Business development experience or an existing network in the North East
- A following or referrable client base (advantageous, not essential)
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary (DOE)
- Opportunity to shape and grow a commercial department
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- Strong pipeline of high-quality work and clients
- Career progression opportunities as the firm expands
- High level of client exposure and responsibility
Why Apply?
This is a unique opportunity to join an ambitious and growing legal practice where you can take on meaningful responsibility and directly influence the direction of a developing commercial function.
If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real impact, build strong client relationships, and progress your career within a supportive environment – this could be the perfect move.
