Income Officer

Overall Purpose of Job

To be proactive in minimising and reducing the amount of monies outstanding to Ongo Homes. To deal promptly with individual cases, by various methods, in order to maximise income.

• Permanent position £27,157 p.a.
• Mon-Fri
• 30 days annual leave
• Health Scheme
• Pension
• Training and development

Main Responsibilities

Monitoring and Collection of Monies owed To monitor arrears on a weekly basis and undertake appropriate investigative work and action where payments are not being made. To contact tenants who owe money and discuss the reasons for non payment and negotiate payment plans including agreeing payment methods such as direct debits. To make appropriate referrals and liaise with internal/external support teams and specialist debt advice agencies where appropriate and in line with Ongo Homes procedures. To make recommendations on cases that could be pursued by an external agency in line with Ongo Homes procedures. To make recommendations on cases for write off in line with Ongo Homes policies and procedures. To prepare and pass information to the manager regarding tenants where an enforcement order of any description would be required to collect the arrears. In doing so ensure that all information is accurate and reliable. To make effective and proper use of Ongo Homes ICT systems as required in accordance with the duties of the post. To ensure debts owed to Ongo Homes are identified and collected quickly and efficiently as possible in accordance with the Ongo Homes policy and procedures. To deal with correspondence to and from the public, elected officials and others in a clear and concise manner, reflecting at all time Ongo Homes policies. To take a full and active role in the implementation of their own personal development and participate in the training and development of colleagues. This post is not restricted to a specific location and the post holder will be expected to work at any location at the Director of Housing Services discretion

Knowledge, Skill & Experience Required

Experience of working in the public sector, preferably in a housing related field. Understanding of housing benefit and welfare benefits. Ability to work flexibly Good interpersonal and negotiation skills Ability to communicate effectively, at all levels, both orally and in writing Problem solving skills Ability to prioritise own workload and to work accurately under pressure to meet conflicting deadlines Computer literate. Experience of rent recovery/accounting systems would be an advantage Able to act in an advocacy role Good numerical skills Good team player but with the ability to work on own initiative Experience of cash handling is desirable Ability to be assertive whilst still giving good customer service. Knowledge of housing law and related legislation (particularly for possession proceedings). Non-judgemental and committed to equal opportunities Knowledge and experience of court procedures Full driving licence and access to a vehicle