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.