Freeths strengthens specialist Projects and Rail offering with senior appointment

Leading law firm Freeths has further bolstered its specialist Projects and Rail practices with the arrival of Director Rachel Crosier. She joins from A&O Shearman.

Based in London, Rachel will work closely alongside Partners James Larmour and Tom Johnson to support the firm’s continued growth in specialist PFI/PPP, major projects work and rail and wider transport and infrastructure capability. Her appointment reflects Freeths’ strategy to strengthen its market-leading offering across complex transport and infrastructure portfolios, in response to growing client and market demand.

An experienced international infrastructure projects lawyer, Rachel brings over 14 years’ experience advising on the procurement, development, financing, delivery and operation of major infrastructure schemes, as well as associated regulatory frameworks.

Her work within the rail sector includes advising on a wide range of rolling stock public-private partnerships, major fleet procurements, operational and maintenance arrangements, depot infrastructure and wider commercial and regulatory matters across UK and international rail markets. This aligns closely with Freeths’ expanding rail group, led by Tom Johnson, which advises train operators, funders, manufacturers, public bodies and supply chain participants across the full lifecycle of rail assets and networks. 

Rachel’s broader practice spans transport, defence, maritime and giga-project developments. She has acted for a broad range of infrastructure sector participants, including government departments and agencies, equity investors, pension funds, manufacturers, contractors and operators, and has worked across multiple jurisdictions including the UK, Saudi Arabia, Africa, the UAE, Australia and Asia.

Her arrival enhances Freeths’ depth of expertise in these niche and highly technical areas, ensuring the firm continues to meet increasing client demand from clients seeking specialist support across complex infrastructure, procurement, PFI/PPP and rail portfolios and transactions.

Commenting on Rachel’s appointment, James Larmour said: “The infrastructure landscape is becoming increasingly sophisticated, and Rachel’s insight will be invaluable as we support clients through that evolution. Her international experience and deep understanding of complex infrastructure transactions, including major rail programmes, strengthens our ability to support clients across the full lifecycle of their projects. As demand in this market continues to grow, particularly in specialist rail and transport portfolios, Rachel’s expertise will play an important role in enhancing the breadth and depth of our offering.”

Rachel Crosier added: “I’m delighted to be joining Freeths at a time when the firm is experiencing such strong growth across its infrastructure, rail and major projects work. PFI/PPP and wider complex infrastructure schemes continue to evolve, especially within the rail sector, where clients increasingly need advisers who can combine technical expertise with genuine sector insight. I look forward to working closely with James, Tom and the wider team to support our clients across these expanding markets.”