Overview

Senior Legal Counsel - National role with DfT Operator (DFTO).

DFTO is the government’s public sector rail owning group. Its purpose is to bring all currently privately-owned train operators into public ownership in advance of the creation of Great British Railways in 2027, and to deliver improvements by unifying and integrating train operations under common public ownership.

About DFTO

DFTO has over 24,000 employees, runs over 6,500 services a day and delivers over 500 million customer journeys across its networks every year. This accounts for 28% of total UK passenger journeys and 32% of passenger miles. The vision is to unify and strengthen train operators under the DFTO banner and become industry-leading in safety, customer service, financial and operational performance.

About The Legal & Compliance Directorate

The Legal and Compliance Directorate provides legal support, oversight and strategic direction across multiple DFTO TOCs ("TOC Group"), ensuring efficient, timely and risk-mitigated provision of quality and commercially focused legal advice. The team safeguards the reputation of the TOCs and supports compliance with all relevant legislation. The Senior Legal Counsel will report to the General Counsel for the TOC Group and assist with managing and supervising junior members of the TOC Group legal team.

About The Role

To assist the Regional General Counsel (TOCs) with providing legal support, oversight and strategic direction to multiple DFTO TOCs ("TOC Group"), ensuring efficient, timely and risk-mitigated provision of quality and commercially focused legal advice. The role will help safeguard the TOCs’ reputation and facilitate compliance with all relevant legislation. The Senior Legal Counsel will report to the General Counsel for the TOC Group and assist with the management and supervision of the Legal Counsel and other developing members of the TOC Group legal team. In the early stages, a Senior Legal Counsel may have responsibility for one TOC; the composition of the TOC Group may change over time as the DFTO Group grows and the structure evolves.

Who we are looking for

The Core Competencies For The Team Will Include

• Demonstrable experience of rail related legal and regulatory requirements (desirable, not core; CVs from non-rail welcomed)
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex legal and commercial documents
• Credible role modeller and ambassador of the DFTO culture/brand
• Consistently delivers on time and accurately
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Dynamic can-do attitude with the ability to find creative legal solutions and seek alternative options in challenging environments
• Track record of building strong relationships with the ability to engage, inspire and influence stakeholders
• Sound judgement, strong commercial acumen, resilience, and a balanced attitude to risk
• Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating legal risks to protect companies from potential legal issues

Vacancy Details

• Location: Flexible across England (hybrid working)
• Duration: Permanent
• Salary: Up to £85,000 dependent on experience

Benefits

Hybrid working arrangements; nationwide eligibility with office-based needs as required. Annual leave starting at 25 days, rising with service up to 30 days. 10% employer pension contribution and 5% employee contribution. Opportunities to learn and network across the wider industry.

Closing date

Closing date for applications is Friday 31 October 2025. This opportunity is available on either a permanent basis or as an industry secondment. If applying for a secondment, please notify your line manager prior to applying.

Equity and Inclusion

DFTO is committed to an inclusive and equitable workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences and provide equal opportunities regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or other status. We strive to foster an environment where everyone feels respected and empowered to bring their whole selves to work.