Collections Officer (Temporary Covering Secondment)

Location: Brixton, LondonSalary: SO2 Grade (Competitive)Hours: Monday - Friday, 9AM - 5PM (35 hours per week)Duration: Temporary (Covering Secondment)Week in Arrears PayHybrid Working: 1 day in the office per week, 4 days WFH (subject to change based on business needs)

We are looking for an experienced Collections Officer to join our specialist team in Brixton. This is a temporary role covering a secondment, offering a unique opportunity to work within a dynamic team managing a portfolio of service charge accounts. You will play a key role in ensuring that payments are up to date and resolving any queries related to service charges.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage Service Charge Accounts: Handle a large portfolio of service charge accounts, ensuring payment compliance and issuing statements and letters when necessary.
• Payment Plans: Authorise and monitor payment plans, ensuring they are followed and updated as required.
• Customer Liaison: Maintain regular contact with account holders via phone, email, and letter, providing advice on service charges, payment issues, and lease obligations.
• Query Resolution: Investigate and resolve any account or service charge issues, liaising with other teams within Home Ownership to provide solutions.
• Legal Action: In instances of non-payment, assess and recommend appropriate legal action in line with statutory guidelines and company policy.
• Collaboration: Work closely with colleagues, elected members, and external agencies (e.g., CAB) to ensure customer satisfaction and compliance with service charge regulations.
• Financial Targets: Work to financial targets set by the Collections Manager and ensure accounts are managed effectively within agreed timeframes.

About You:

• Strong knowledge of leasehold issues, including service charges, repairs, maintenance responsibilities, and relevant legislation.
• Proven experience in collections or debt recovery, ideally within a housing or property management setting.
• Good working knowledge of IT and accounting systems, with the ability to navigate legal aspects of service charges and landlord-tenant relationships.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to liaise professionally with account holders, colleagues, and external partners.
• Detail-oriented with a proactive approach to resolving complex queries and ensuring accuracy in financial administration.

To Apply: If you have the experience and expertise to thrive in this challenging and rewarding role, please submit your CV and cover letter today.