Hugh James appoints former MTR Elizabeth Line boss as strategic advisor to bolster rail sector expertise
Hugh James appoints former MTR Elizabeth Line boss as strategic advisor to bolster rail sector expertise
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Top 100 UK law firm Hugh James has strengthened its growing rail sector team with the appointment of Mike Bagshaw, former Managing Director of MTR Elizabeth Line, as a strategic advisor.
Bagshaw brings over two decades of senior leadership experience in the UK and European rail industry. During his tenure at MTR Elizabeth Line, he oversaw the final implementation of London’s landmark Elizabeth Line, managing multi-million-pound operations, record passenger growth, and improved customer satisfaction while leading large-scale teams through complex infrastructure projects.
His appointment marks a major addition to Hugh James’ expanding rail sector capabilities, enhancing the firm’s specialist knowledge and industry insight.
Building on more than a decade of advising major rail operators, infrastructure bodies, and the wider supply chain, the Hugh James rail team is recognised for its expertise in providing specialist legal support.
The firm is one of only ten suppliers appointed under the Crown Commercial Service’s Framework RM6240, which gives public sector organisations access to expert advice on rail issues across England and Wales.
Hugh James also advises Transport for Wales on employment, commercial, and procurement law, and over the past year has hosted major industry events in collaboration with Network Rail, GWR, and the Railway Industry Association, reinforcing its position as a key connector across the UK rail sector.
“I am delighted to be working with Hugh James’ rail sector team as strategic advisor,” said Mike Bagshaw. “The rail sector is entering an exciting period of both change and growth and Hugh James is well-positioned to support clients in all parts of the industry with its wealth and breadth of expertise.”
In his new role, Bagshaw will support the ongoing development of the firm’s rail offering, ensuring its services evolve alongside the sector’s needs. His experience is expected to help strengthen the team’s strategic direction and reinforce Hugh James’ position as a trusted advisor within the industry.
Aled Walters, Partner and Head of Rail at Hugh James, said: “Mike’s appointment underlines our commitment to the rail sector and reflects the reputation our Rail Team has built for delivering expert, commercially focused legal support.
“As a full-service firm, we’re able to draw on expertise across a wide range of practice areas, enabling us to provide holistic, end-to-end support to operators, franchises and the wider rail supply chain.
“Our team also works closely with colleagues in complementary sectors such as Energy and Renewables, Hospitality and Leisure, and the Public Sector, ensuring we deliver tailored advice that meets the sector’s evolving needs.
“We’re excited to welcome Mike on board and look forward to working with him to strengthen our support for clients across the rail industry.”
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