One dealing shadily in big cheeses from the east (4)

I believe the answer is:

spiv

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'one dealing shadily in big cheeses from the east' is the definition.
The answer is a person as well as being a singular noun. This is suggested by the definition.

This is the entire clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for spiv that I've seen before include "Flashy crook" , "shady character" , "Unscrupulous dealer" , "Old black marketeer" , "Non-kosher supplier" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.