Income Recovery Officer

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Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Statement

Surrey is included in the Local Government Reorganisation plans, with new unitary councils expected to be established by April 2027.

Woking Borough Council remains committed to delivering high-quality services to residents throughout this period of change.

While we understand that applicants may feel uncertain about joining us during this transition, it is anticipated that most employees will transfer to the new unitary councils. This reorganisation may also present new career development opportunities across the region.

UK Visa Sponsorship

We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
Applicants must already have the legal right to work in the UK.

AI Use in Applications

We understand that some applicants may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with preparing their applications.

All submitted information—whether supported by AI or not—must accurately reflect the applicant’s own skills, experience, and qualifications.

Recruitment decisions will be based on how well applicants demonstrate these attributes during the interview and selection process.

Woking Borough Council is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities and provide reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process.

Please apply online via the link provided.

We are looking for a proactive, motivated, and customer‑focused Income Recovery Officer to join our Housing Services team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting residents, improving financial wellbeing, and helping to sustain tenancies across our communities.

About the Role

As an Income Officer, you will take responsibility for all aspects of income collection and arrears recovery for a designated patch of properties. You will work in a holistic and person‑centred way, recognising that income issues are often linked to wider support needs. Building rapport and trust with residents is key, as you will help them to stabilise their finances, maximise their income, and maintain their homes.

You will take a performance‑driven and proactive approach to managing accounts, identifying early signs of arrears and taking timely action to prevent debts from escalating. This involves meaningful conversations with residents, problem‑solving, and working closely with internal services and external partners to offer support, advice, and signposting.

What We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from people with:

• Experience in income recovery, rent collection, housing management, welfare support, or debt advice – or strong transferable skills from customer service, support work, or other people‑focused roles
• A holistic, empathetic approach to working with residents
• Strong communication skills and the ability to handle challenging conversations professionally and positively
• A proactive mindset with the ability to work independently, manage a varied caseload, and meet performance targets
• Confidence in using systems, maintaining accurate records, and following policies and procedures
• A full driving licence and access to a car, as the role requires travel across the borough
• Willingness to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, as this is required for the position
• The ability to communicate confidently with customers and provide clear, accurate advice in spoken English is essential for this role. Please note that an assessment may be required.

If you are driven, people‑focused, and passionate about making a difference, this could be the perfect role for you.

Why Join Us?

In return, we offer a supportive working environment and a range of employee benefits, including:

• A flexible working scheme allowing up to two flexi days per month
• Hybrid working
• Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme
• Discounted health and leisure membership
• A range of additional employee benefits

For queries or to discuss the role further, please contact Income Team Leader Laura Dillon on 01483 743494, 07484905997 or laura.dillon@woking.gov.uk

No agencies please

Closing date: 27 April 2026 - 23.55pm

Interview date: 7 May 2026