Commercial Team
A focus on our expertise within Private Practice.
Commercial Law is a perpetually thriving sector due to its vital function within the economy and respectively within society as a whole. In line with this changing social landscape, the commercial law job market is a highly competitive space that requires services of the highest calibre. In effect, our passionate stance and well-informed perspective place us at the forefront of leading recruitment services associated with commercial law. And, as the legal market continues to grow and diversify, our approachable team are here to support you with their considerate approach towards methods of communication and discretion.
Here's what our Head of Commercial, Jon-Paul Hanaran, had to say:
"Our Commercial team is continually challenged to not only source the leading talent across all commercial law disciplines but also, crucially, to have a clear understanding of the idiosyncratic nature of the legal market itself. Our team has spent the last decade
building on our knowledge of the sub-categories and ever-growing talent pools found within the commercial legal profession, and
fostering relationships with law firms large and small across the globe and, by understanding what makes them unique, advise lawyers on how to make that next move, career-defining."
Clients:
Our specialised recruiters are dedicated to assisting firms in the construction, real estate, disputes, and insolvency sectors in attracting top talent. With expertise in navigating challenges, we provide knowledgeable and professional services, having invested significantly in building a vast network across the commercial market. We consider not only professional factors but also personal and cultural values to effectively match clients with suitable candidates. From supporting Partners with strategic decision-making to guiding junior lawyers from university to qualification, we prioritise long-term relationships. Our human approach, combined with advanced market mapping technology and research skills, ensures precise candidate sourcing and valuable market insights. As evidenced by our growing connections with leading commercial law firms, we aim for a clear, smooth, and efficient recruitment process for all parties involved.
Candidates:
We're fortunate to collaborate with the majority of the Legal Market, granting us a unique insight into opportunities across the commercial law sector. Whether you're an innovator, entrepreneur, or traditionalist, we understand the varied rewards, flexibility, and career paths each offers. Our goal is to not only assist in your job transition but also to help shape your ideal career trajectory. Our dedicated consultants provide tailored advice, from organisational duties to client negotiation, ensuring your objectives are met and you're matched with a firm that aligns with your specifications. We also offer quality-assured coaching services to enhance your market readiness.
Jon-Paul Hanrahan, Associate Director and Head of Commercial at Douglas Scott, has over 20 years of legal recruitment experience, including 15+ years with the company. He partners with top international law firms and FTSE250/Fortune500 legal teams. Leading the Corporate & Commercial team globally, he advises on senior hires, team moves, and talent flow across Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, shaping Douglas Scott’s success since its inception.
Afraz is an Associate Senior Recruitment Consultant at Douglas Scott Legal Recruitment, with over 3 years at the company. He joined in 2021 and works with major international law firms in London and the Middle East, assisting with their recruitment across a variety of practice areas such as corporate, banking, construction, projects and disputes. Afraz also has a History degree, along with a GDL and LPC. Outside of work, Afraz enjoys playing football.
Abigail McGinty is a Senior Recruitment Consultant at Douglas Scott, with over a year at the company. Before joining, she worked as a legal recruitment consultant at another agency. In her current role, she’s excited to expand her knowledge and network within the legal market. If not in recruitment, Abigail would have pursued a career as cabin crew, driven by her passion for travel. A fun fact: she’s half Irish.
Ali Hameed is a Senior Recruitment Consultant at Douglas Scott Legal Recruitment, with less than a year at the company. The best advice he’s received is to never compare yourself to others and focus on what you can control. Ali measures success by building long-lasting relationships with candidates and clients. His approach to finding the right fit involves understanding the requirements from all parties involved.
Dalton is an Associate Recruitment Consultant at Douglas Scott, with over two years at the company. He focuses on the American market, sourcing and placing top legal talent with leading firms and corporations, while providing career guidance and market insights. Dalton stays informed on industry trends to best serve his clients and candidates. In his spare time, he enjoys going to the gym, exploring Manchester’s eateries, and watching Erik’s Mighty Reds.
Tom has over four years’ recruitment experience across financial services and the global mining sector, placing talent from senior corporate roles to specialist engineers. Now focused on the US legal market, he thrives in fast-paced environments and brings a sharp, consultative approach. Outside of work, Tom is a passionate Manchester United fan and season ticket holder who loves to travel.
Expertise
We partner the HR professionals, practice managers, partners and business leaders who are accountable for hiring talent into their business.
