Senior Legal Counsel

Salary scale: £59,031 - £82,400 per annum

Closing date: 11 March 2026

What is the purpose of this job?

As the government embarks on an exciting journey to create a simpler, better railway for everyone, we are looking to develop our legal team in readiness to support this programme.

As part of the Legal and Procurement Division, your role will predominantly focus on supporting the work of the Fares, Ticketing & Retail (FTR) reform programme, working with cross industry stakeholders to improve rail fares, ticketing and retail ensuring that the rail industry is delivering for passengers and taxpayers. Internally, you will work closely with the RDG Commercial Director and team.

You will also play an important role in ensuring that RDG enters into legally and commercially sound agreements with suppliers to the rail industry and supporting the numerous functions within RDG with their legal and commercial issues.

As senior legal counsel, you will be expected to operate autonomously, supporting RDG undertake all of its operations by acting as a critical friend and legal advisor.

What can I expect to do in this job?

This isn’t an exhaustive list, but things you can expect to be involved with include:

In your specific role:

· Working closely with the Commercial Director and wider team on the FTR programme.

· Acting as the key legal resource for the FTR programme, you’ll work collaboratively across multiple organisations as part of the programme.

· Building strong relationships with in-house teams as well as cross industry stakeholders, including DfT, DfTO, FTR and Network Rail.

· Advising RDG on matters pertaining to the FTR programme, which will include considering complex strategic and commercial issues that are likely to shape the future of industry.

· Considering and balancing the interests of multiple interested parties and helping to facilitate and move towards a cohesive and successful approach to FTR, enabling change and providing a solid platform for GBR.

· Contribute to policy development and strategic decision making with clear, timely and well-reasoned legal input.

As Senior Legal Counsel:

· Providing accurate legal advice to colleagues across the organisation (and on behalf of industry) on a variety of legal issues, including commercial contracts, data protection

(including GDPR and PECR), competition law, consumer protection legislation and dispute resolution.

· Act as the strategic bridge for the General Counsel, becoming a subject matter expert in FTR, developing proposed solutions for matters and understanding the complex technical frameworks in the FTR space.

· Supporting RDG transition, specifically in regard to fares, ticketing and retail matters, in light of broader industry changes.

· Supporting the organisation on a wide range of legal matters such as contracts, regulatory compliance, litigation, intellectual property, and corporate governance

· Ad hoc training of RDG colleagues to raise legal awareness and understanding throughout the organisation.

Requirements

What experience, skills and knowledge do I need?

The postholder will have:

· demonstrable strong interpersonal skills in order that they can motivate, negotiate, influence and build strong relationships with all levels of staff within the organisation.

· the right to practice law in England and Wales.

· the ability to work confidently with senior stakeholders, including government departments, regulators and commercial partners.

· the ability to communicate effectively and clearly with those who understand the law and those who do not.

· proven analytical and problem-solving skills, demonstrating your ability to assess and understand complex legal issues and provide strategic advice.

· Sound judgement, resilience and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-moving, high profile environment.

Essential

· Qualified to practice as a solicitor or barrister in England and Wales, with good (8+ years) post qualification experience.

· Experience in complex commercial arrangements/contracts, including disputes arising from such.

· Experience of working on major projects, public sector reform or largescale commercial arrangements

Desirable

· Experience of advising clients within the rail / transport industry (either public or private sector)

· Experience in data protection and freedom of information legislation.

· Competition law knowledge (highly desirable).

Benefits

Why Work for RDG?

We offer a highly competitive package, including:

• 75% off rail travel for personal and family use, plus international rail discounts.
• 30 Days annual leave (plus buy/sell options and additional leave for key life events)
• Season ticket loan for commuting costs.
• Enhanced family leave – 30 weeks full pay for maternity, adoption, surrogacy, and shared parental leave.
• Pension scheme – up to 11.58% employer contribution.
• Private medical insurance including mental health and specialist care.
• Discounted gym membership and access to wellbeing programmes.

Career Development & Progression

You’ll be part of a team driving innovation at a national scale, with the opportunity to influence long-term ticketing strategy. This role provides real ownership, the chance to work with leading-edge technologies and partners, and visibility at senior levels across the rail industry. You’ll also gain wide exposure to transport and government stakeholders, opening up exciting development and progression opportunities within RDG.

Apply Now & Shape the Future of UK Rail

If you are interested in joining RDG we’d love to hear from you!

Click Apply now to start your application and be part of a team that is leading digital innovation in the rail industry.

Please note that we are unable to consider applications from candidates who require visa sponsorship to work in the UK.