Commercial Director/Senior Legal Counsel in London

Commercial Director

Summary of Role

Our client is a successful international recruitment consultancy with operations across multiple global regions. They are seeking a highly motivated and people-focused Commercial Director to join their senior leadership team.

This pivotal role will be responsible for leading and developing three key business units — Legal, Compliance & Onboarding, and Contracts — while driving commercial success, operational excellence, and a culture of collaboration and accountability.

The ideal candidate will be an inspiring leader who thrives in a high-growth, fast-paced environment and has a proven ability to empower teams, develop talent, and foster alignment across diverse international operations.

Key Responsibilities

People & Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop the heads of the Legal, Compliance & Onboarding, and Contracts teams. Total team of 10.
• Create an environment that encourages professional growth, teamwork, and high performance.
• Champion a culture of inclusion, transparency, and accountability across all reporting units.
• Foster collaboration across global offices to ensure cohesive operations and consistent standards.

Strategic Leadership

• Work closely with the senior leadership team to shape and deliver the company’s commercial strategy.
• Translate strategic objectives into actionable plans for each business unit.
• Monitor performance metrics and drive continuous improvement across all operational areas.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee the efficiency, quality, and compliance of daily operations across the Legal, Compliance & Onboarding, and Contracts functions.
• Implement best practices to streamline processes and enhance service delivery in a growing international business.

Commercial & Contract Management

• Oversee negotiation, drafting, and execution of key commercial contracts, including client, supplier, and partnership agreements.
• Ensure all contractual arrangements are commercially advantageous and legally sound.

Risk & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with relevant international laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• Maintain robust corporate governance and risk management frameworks across all reporting units.

Financial & Strategic Oversight

• Manage P&L for the reporting departments, ensuring cost efficiency and budgetary control.
• Contribute to the overall financial planning and growth strategy of the business.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with clients, suppliers, and legal partners.
• Serve as a key representative for complex commercial and legal matters both internally and externally.

Experience and Knowledge

• Proven experience in a senior commercial or legal leadership role (e.g., Commercial Director, General Counsel, or Legal Director) MUST BE with an International Recruitment Agency.
• Demonstrated success in leading and developing multi-disciplinary teams.
• Strong understanding of international contract law, risk management, and regulatory frameworks.
• Strategic mindset with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.