About DFT Operator
DfT Operator (DFTO) is the public sector rail owning group responsible for all train operating companies (TOCs) transitioning into public ownership. Established by the Department for Transport in 2018, it aims to deliver safe, secure, and sustainable transport for everyone. The organization focuses on improving journeys, providing excellent customer service, and building a passenger-focused railway.
Currently, DFTO manages four train operators: London North Eastern Railway (LNER), Northern, Southeastern, and TransPennine Express (TPE), with over 4,500 services daily and 300 million customer journeys annually. Over the next three years, all passenger services operated under contracts with the DfT will transfer to DFTO.
The vision is to unify and strengthen train operators under the DFTO banner, striving for industry-leading safety, customer service, and operational performance.
About the Legal & Compliance Directorate
This directorate provides legal support, oversight, and strategic direction across multiple DFTO TOCs to ensure efficient and risk-mitigated legal advice. The team safeguards the reputation of the TOCs and ensures compliance with relevant legislation. Legal Counsels and Senior Legal Counsels report to the General Counsel and oversee junior legal team members.
About the role
The Legal Counsel will support the General and Senior Legal Counsels, providing legal advice across the TOC Group within DFTO. Responsibilities include advising on commercial contracts and compliance, particularly related to the public sector.
Initially, a Legal Counsel may oversee a single TOC, but the group may expand over time. The role is open to candidates based anywhere in the Midlands or North of the UK, supporting TOCs nationally.
Who will we be looking for?
Key competencies include:
* Contract drafting and negotiation skills.
* Ability to work collaboratively in a regulated, fast-paced environment.
* Interest in UK rail law and public law.
* Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to interpret complex legal documents and explain them clearly.
* Attention to detail and timeliness.
* Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and prioritize tasks.
We welcome inquiries about the full job descriptions for all roles in the directorate.
Interested candidates should contact our recruitment team. Expressing interest will lead to a detailed discussion about the role.
Vacancy Details
Duration: Permanent
Location: Hybrid, based in the Midlands or North, supporting TOCs nationwide.
Salary: £60,000 - £70,000 depending on experience.
Benefits include:
* Flexible/hybrid working options.
* 25 days annual leave.
* Industry learning opportunities.
* 10% pension contribution.
* And more.
We are an inclusive employer and support flexible working arrangements. Applicants are encouraged to discuss flexible options during the application process.
Note: Candidates applying on a secondment basis must inform their line manager beforehand to ensure transparency and workload management.
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