Corporate Commercial Solicitor

Job Description About the CompanyAt Coole Bevis, we pride ourselves on being a progressive and reputable law firm with offices in Brighton, Horsham, Hove and Worthing. Our commitment to excellence and client service is at the heart of everything we do.We believe that investing in our people enables them to provide the best possible service to our clients. Our firm is deeply rooted in the communities we serve, giving us unique insights into both local and broader contexts.Key objectivesAdvise clients on a broad range of corporate and commercial matters, including mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, shareholders arrangements, commercial contracts, and general advisory work.About the RoleResponsibilitiesAdvise on and manage corporate transactions, including:Share and asset acquisitions and disposalsBusiness sales and purchasesReorganisations, group restructures and demergersJoint ventures and strategic investmentsConduct and coordinate legal due diligence, including document review, risk identification, and reporting to clients and funders.Draft, review, negotiate and settle transaction documentation, including:Share purchase agreements / asset purchase agreementsDisclosure letters and disclosure bundlesShareholders agreements, joint venture agreements, and investment agreementsDraft, review and negotiate a range of commercial agreements, including:Terms and conditionsSupply and distribution agreementsAgency, reseller and partner agreementsServices agreementsConfidentiality agreementsGeneral Advise on company law and corporate governance matters, including directors duties, shareholder rights, and statutory compliance.Where applicable, supervise and mentor trainees/paralegals, including task allocation and quality assurance.Collaborate with colleagues across departments (e.g., employment, commercial property, litigation) to deliver joined-up advice.Support knowledge management, precedent development and process improvement.Ensure matters are conducted in accordance with SRA Standards and Regulations, firm policies, and applicable legislation.Maintain accurate time recording, file management, and financial hygiene (WIP, billing, and matter closure).Identify and manage conflicts, confidentiality issues, AML requirements and risk procedures (including client due diligence).Build and maintain strong client relationships; act as a key point of contact on matters.Provide commercially focused advice, balancing legal risk with business objectives.Contribute to business development, including networking, referrals, and content creation.QualificationsQualified solicitor in England & Wales with 3+ years PQE (guidance only; strong candidates outside this range may be considered)Required SkillsDemonstrable experience in corporate transactions and/or commercial contracting.Experience managing matters with appropriate supervision and handling competing deadlines.Familiarity with Companies Act 2006 requirements, Companies House filings, and corporate governance.Experience of drafting and negotiating core corporate documents and commercial contracts.Strong drafting and negotiation skills with attention to detail.Ability to identify legal and commercial risk and propose practical mitigations.Competent use of document management systems and legal tech tools (as applicable).Effective matter management, including scoping, budgeting, and delegation.Client-focused with a professional and pragmatic approach.Strong communication skills (written and verbal).Commercial awareness and sound judgement.Team-oriented with a proactive approach to workload management.Discretion, integrity and reliability.Preferred SkillsQuality and timeliness of advice and documentation.Matter management: budgets, billing, recoveries, and financial discipline.Client satisfaction and repeat instructions.Contribution to business development targets.Effective supervision and collaboration.

Created: 2026-03-07