Housing Income Manager

Job Description: Housing Income Manager

Overall Purpose of Job
The Housing Income Manager will ensure the Housing Service maximizes income through effective management, timely collection of rents and arrears, and adherence to performance targets. The role includes adapting income collection processes to legislative changes and supporting the Strategic Director in optimizing team structure and processes, with a focus on regulatory compliance and support for vulnerable residents.
Key Responsibilities

1. Income Stream Management: Define and document all Housing income streams and processes to ensure clarity and effectiveness.
2. Arrears Management: Oversee the rent arrears process, establishing performance targets to minimize arrears and addressing complex cases or legal issues.
3. Financial Inclusion: Facilitate equal access to financial and debt advice for tenants, enhancing their understanding of budgeting and banking.
4. Collaboration: Work with the Housing Business and Performance Manager and team leaders to evaluate and enhance income-related processes.
5. System Administration: Manage the Northgate rents application, collaborating with IT and Housing personnel for timely updates and implementations.
6. Financial Coordination: Assist in annual rent setting and service charge activities in collaboration with the Finance Team.
7. Best Practice Identification: Liaise with various teams to identify and implement best practices regarding process changes.
8. Performance Monitoring: Regularly assess the performance of team members, addressing under-performance as necessary.
9. Training Development: Identify and address training needs within the team to maintain high performance.
10. Continuous Improvement: Monitor work to identify best practice opportunities for improved service delivery.
11. Other Duties: Undertake additional responsibilities as required.

Operating Environment
The post holder is expected to adhere to council policies, contribute to an effective service delivery, and maintain a safe and tidy work environment.
Person Specification/Selection Criteria
Knowledge

• Good working knowledge of local authority income procedures, especially housing rents and arrears.
• Understanding of housing law and welfare benefits.
• Familiarity with Northgate or equivalent rents system.
• Knowledge of effective customer service practices.

Experience

• Front-line experience in rent collection and arrears management.
• Knowledge of Pre Court Protocol (PCOL) and experience presenting possession cases.
• Experience representing the Council in eviction appeals.
• Proven leadership and management experience, including conducting staff appraisals.
• Familiarity with financial inclusion and capability issues.

Qualifications/Training

• Part or full CIH qualification.
• A good standard of education with strong written and verbal communication skills.