Liability Negotiations Advisor

The role of the Liability team is to deliver advice on Network Rail's statutory and contractual obligations for existing and proposed infrastructure. This advice supports the delivery of a safe, efficient, reliable and sustainable rail service, whilst maximising potential cost savings and opportunities.

Most of the railway network was constructed in the 1800s, and Network Rail still relies on historic legislation, case law and records from that time. The Liability Negotiations Advisor is involved in a wide range of activities from closure of level crossings to giving the company advice on pigeon nuisance complaints, for this reason the role is extremely varied with no two days the same. The incredibly varied tasks an Advisor undertakes include:

· Reviewing and interpreting legislation, such as Railway and Highways Acts, and historic legal documents.

· Researching and interpreting information from multiple sources, to identify and implement solutions that reduce the Company's liability and expenditure, and ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and with necessary consents in place.

· Liaising with internal stakeholders such as Asset Protection, Property, Sponsors, Maintenance and Level Crossing and Structures teams.

· Meeting with external stakeholders, such as landowners, Highway Authorities and user groups (including site visits / meetings and public events) to lead negotiations on options that would reduce Network Rail's liability.

We are looking for someone who thrives off a fast-paced environment and enjoys finding solutions and new ways of working to improve customer experience. The ideal candidate will need to be comfortable managing competing priorities and deadlines., Your Main Responsibilities will be to:

1. Deliver statutory and contractual advice relating to Network Rail’s infrastructure asset protection and liability issues, informing of legal maintenance and renewal obligations in accordance with the advice of Legal Services.

2. Assist with the identification and implementation of opportunities and methods to reduce or eliminate Network Rail’s obligations to renew or maintain infrastructure.

3. Progress negotiations with external parties for the reduction, elimination or transfer of rights in level crossings, bridges and other structures and the completion of appropriate documentation.

4. Assist in the preparation of Transport and Works Act Order and Development Consent Order submissions and input into the resolution of issues and objections arising.

5. Advise internal stakeholders on the implications of externally promoted Transport & Works Orders. Provide recommendations to address concerns.

6. Provide specialist support to enable company responses to draft legislation and statutory consultations as required.

7. Progress opportunities and liaise with local authorities on adopting, diverting or stopping up highways under legislation that cross over the railway to enable the closure or reduction in status of level crossings.

8. Provide advice to protect railway infrastructure assets from the unauthorised or unlawful activities by adjoining owners/occupiers and on the use of statuary powers of access to third party land to enable critical civil engineering works to proceed., Diversity and inclusion are more than just buzz words for us. We’re constantly striving to make sure we provide a welcoming and safe environment for everyone. We recognise that certain groups are under-represented within our team and we’re working closely with our regional diversity and inclusion networks to make sure we support these groups as best as we can.

We are working in conjunction with the Cultural Fusion team. If you would like support with your application or interview please contact Wales&WesternCulturalFusion@networkrail.co.uk or visit the connect page: Wales and Western Cultural Fusion (sharepoint.com). For all other support please contact your HR Business Partner.

Knowledge and understanding of statutory, common contractual and property law is essential and, whilst not essential, it would be advantageous for a candidate to have a background in English language, history or public rights of way., · Degree or equivalent qualification / experience in a relevant subject

· Substantial knowledge of relevant and current statutory, common, contractual and property law and its application

· Substantial inter-personnel and negotiating skills.

What could set you apart

· Membership of an appropriate professional body

· Substantial knowledge of property clearance procedures and input required to protect operational interests.

· Substantial knowledge of railway infrastructure and engineering

At Network Rail, we’re part of a large family serving millions of passengers and freight users throughout the UK every day. Our service impacts millions of people and we strive to become more efficient as we enhance, maintain, and operate our network.

Our passengers and freight users are at the heart of everything we do. We help connect people to their friends and families and get goods to their destination safely and efficiently. We’re an organisation where people matter. When you're part of our team, you matter to us, and you matter to millions. Watch our video to find out more!

The Wales & Western region includes more than 2,700 miles of railway and we serve communities and businesses of Wales, the Thames Valley, West of England, and the Southwest Peninsula.
Our ambition to be responsive to passengers and freight users drives us every day and we're empowered to do the right thing for those who use the rail network. We actively challenge unsafe practices and take responsibility for addressing risks, resolving issues, and protecting safety and wellbeing.

About our people and the recruitment process - We’re an inclusive employer of choice and we welcome applications from everyone!

· Privileged staff travel - Leisure travel discount of 75% on all leisure travel and includes family members.

· A subsidy of up to 75% on rail and underground season tickets if you travel to work on the train.

· GWR ticket alliance – Heavily discounted all day passes for you and up to 3 friends and family to use across the GWR network.

· Benefits package including healthcare offers, a cycle to work scheme, discounted healthcare club membership, and a discounted offers and benefits including childcare, healthcare and online shopping site.

· A range of Pension schemes to choose from

· Effectively manage work-life balance with a 35hrs per week contract, hybrid working, and enhanced family friendly support.

· 5 days paid volunteering leave.

· 2 weeks paid reserve leave for the Armed Forces community.