As Chief Counsel of FTA, Sev was the principal legal advisor, directing all aspects of FTA's legal activities and supported all aspects of daily operations, including primary responsibility for rulemaking and enforcement. In this role, Sev assisted the Administrator in analyzing and approving grants for proposed transit projects, ensured compliance with all procurement, labor and environmental requirements, and briefed Congressional staff, state and local officials, and officials in other Federal agencies regarding FTA projects and programs. 

Sev educates and advises Boards and staff on a wide spectrum of vital services – from initial policy and planning considerations, to financing and risk assessment, contracting and procurement in connection with infrastructure projects nationwide. Sev offers intelligent application of, and suggests methods of compliance with, Federal laws and regulations and other legal requirements. During his long career serving in government and the private sector, Sev has had numerous opportunities to work closely with Republican and Democratic elected officials at all levels, has provided technical assistance in a bipartisan manner, and has consistently built and nurtured bipartisan relationships.