Debt Recovery Assistant

Job Purpose:

To assist the Debt Recovery Officer in the collection of outstanding debts across Local Taxation, Housing Benefit Overpayments, and Sundry Debt Recovery. The role ensures compliance with the Corporate Debt Policy and supports effective debt management processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with the control and reconciliation of financial systems.
• Provide advice, assistance, and training to colleagues as required.
• Pursue recovery of debts in line with agreed procedures and policies.
• Respond to customer enquiries via email, phone, and in person, negotiating appropriate repayment arrangements.
• Liaise with external debt collection agencies and manage processes such as Attachment of Earnings.
• Administer and monitor Direct Debit arrangements.

Experience Required:

• Previous experience in a Local Government environment or similar.
• Minimum 1 year in Debt Management/Recovery.
• Accounts receivable experience within a large, multi-functional organisation.
• Working knowledge of ACADEMY systems.
• Experience dealing with Debt Recovery Agents/Solicitors.

Skills & Competencies:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong numeracy and proficiency in spreadsheets (Excel).
• Ability to handle difficult or irate customers professionally.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of Local Taxation and Housing Benefit Overpayments.
• Familiarity with Corporate Debt Policy and related procedures.
• 1 day a week in the office.