Brief Description 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.
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.About the role (External)Key Accountabilities – 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 statutory powers of access to third party land to enable critical civil engineering works to proceed.
Essential ·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.
Desirable ·Membership of an appropriate professional body (IPROW, RICS, ILEX, Law Society) ·Understanding of Risk management ·Working knowledge of property clearance procedures and input required to protect operational interests.
·Working knowledge of railway infrastructure and engineering and / or public rights of way