Overview
Join Network Rail - Where People and Connections Matter. At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve and to ED&I commitments. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we’ll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.
Location: London, GB
Department Name: GC LS Legal Services (638200) G4
Vacancy Details
* Duration: Permanent
* Location: This role is based in London Waterloo (other locations may be considered). This role is a full-time opportunity, flexible working patterns will be considered.
* Band & Salary: Band 2C, Salary £85,395 - £101,323 (Plus benefits, including £3,270 London Allowance and £6,000 Car Allowance)
About the Role
The role is a new and exciting senior leadership position in Network Rail’s National Legal Team. We are looking for someone who is comfortable advising across commercial and procurement matters and providing strategic business-focused legal advice for the company today and in support of the work to prepare for Great British Railways (GBR). You will enjoy having a varied caseload across different customers and providing support to the General Counsel in setting the team’s strategic direction.
Responsibilities
* Manage the commercial and procurement legal work undertaken by the National Legal Team.
* Support Network Rail’s national functions (e.g., Technical Authority, Route Services, Finance, HR for national functions, Procurement) and assist regional legal colleagues on matters affecting the business.
* Collaborate with strategic partners and stakeholders, including the Department for Transport, on legal matters arising from rail industry reform.
* Provide trusted, business-focused legal advice to senior leaders and influence policy and decision-making.
* Inspire and mentor a team of Legal Counsels and contribute to a culture of collaboration and excellence.
* Engage in multi-disciplinary projects with procurement specialists and ensure external legal support is used effectively.
What We Are Looking For
* A qualified solicitor or barrister with strong post-qualification experience, ideally with in-house experience.
* The ability to lead others or demonstrate potential for leadership.
* A broad legal background with the capacity to identify and mitigate corporate legal risks while influencing decisions at the highest level.
* Exceptional communication skills to translate complex legal issues into clear, actionable advice.
* Proactive, commercially minded approach and a commitment to making a real difference in shaping Britain’s railways.
How To Apply (External)
* Closing date: 13/02/2026 (early applications advised; advert may close early based on volumes).
* Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should demonstrate awareness of our Safety Vision.
* If you require any support with your application, please click here for contact details.
* All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information.
Benefits
* Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered.
* Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
* Discounts at stations with the Network Rail pass.
* Defined benefit pension scheme.
* 75% subsidy on train tickets.
* Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
* Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
* Plus more…
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