At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage debt collection processes and represent cases in court.
- Company: Join Thurrock Council, a dynamic organisation making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and excellent training opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a recognised team shaping the future of local governance and community support.
- Qualifications: Experience in debt collection and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Located on the River Thames, just 30 minutes from London.
The predicted salary is between 39027 - 44463 £ per year.
This job is brought to you by Jobs/Redefined, the UK\’s leading over-50s age inclusive jobs board.
Job Description
Grade E
Salary: £39,027 – £44,463 per annum
12 Months Fixed Term Contract
37 Hours per Week
Situated on the River Thames, Thurrock is an ambitious unitary with vision and opportunities for its residents and businesses.
Thurrock\’s Debt Management Team is a highly recognised services having been nominated twice for the IRRV (Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation) Most Improved Team of the Year Award and was in the finalists in 2012 and achieved a Bronze Award in 2013.
The team are currently looking for an experienced Senior Debt Court Officer to join this dynamic team. You will be responsible for effectively managing the major processes involved in the collection of the various Portfolios of Debt owed to the Council.
Whilst working in the Debt Management Team, you will be taking your selected cases through the Court Processes by attending and presenting the cases at County Court and attending Magistrates Court Hearings for both Liability Order Hearings and Committal Means Enquiry Hearings.
The ideal candidate will have:
- Confidence to be able to manage difficult conversations
- A knowledge of debt collection processes (Ideally Council Tax, Non Domestic Rates and Sundry)
- A knowledge of the Money Claims on Line (MCOL) process
- A knowledge of the County Court processes and methods of enforcement
- A clear understanding of the Charging Order, Bankruptcy and Committal processes
- A full knowledge and understanding of the Thurrock Fair Debt Policy
- Experience using negotiation skills
- Experience of communicating with members of the public.
- A full knowledge of the Means Enquiry process for Committal Hearings
In return for your time and commitment, we offer:
- Generous annual leave entitlement – 25 days rising to 30 after 5 years\’ service
- Flexible working to support a good work life balance
- An excellent Employee Assistance Programme
- Excellent training opportunities and an established CPD programme
- Reflective supervision and management support
A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check at Basic Level is required for this post.
Closing Dates:
- Redeployment Only Applications: 31st July 2025
- Internal & External Applications: 17th August 2025
Interview date: TBC
To view the Job Profile and Person Specification please follow the link below:
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About Us
Why Thurrock?
Working at Thurrock Council gives you the opportunity to join an organisation that is changing at pace, one where you can make a real difference to the lives of the people we serve.
Thurrock Council is moving towards a new community leadership approach which involves linking with local partners and communities as we shape our improvement for the years ahead.
This is an exciting time to join us, to shape the future success of our changing organisation and to have a positive influence on our borough.
Our location
Thurrock is located on the north bank of the river Thames. Our urban centres are a vibrant mix of established towns and new young communities, with a diverse and growing population of around 160,000 residents.
We are an emerging cultural and arts centre, home to the production centre for the Royal Opera House and the National Skills Academy for Creative and Cultural Skills. We have excellent retail and leisure opportunities, including Lakeside Shopping Centre, country parks, forests, and marshes.
Thurrock is just half an hour journey away from the centre of London by train and well connected by road.
Staff benefits
We offer lots of staff benefits, including a generous annual leave entitlement and hybrid working. We champion flexible working and job share applications are welcome.
Further information can be found here Employment benefits | Working for the council | Thurrock Council
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Thurrock Council is committed to equal opportunities. As a Disability Confident Employer, disabled people will be offered an interview where they meet all essential criteria on the person specification.
We serve a diverse community where people are different yet equal. Diversity underpins everything we do.
For further information about Thurrock Council please visit our website: Thurrock Council
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Senior Debt Court Officer employer: Thurrock Council
Contact Detail:
Thurrock Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Debt Court Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific debt collection processes relevant to the role, such as Council Tax and Non-Domestic Rates. This knowledge will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the job's requirements.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your negotiation skills in real-life scenarios or through role-playing exercises. Being able to manage difficult conversations effectively is crucial for this position, so showcasing your ability to handle these situations can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Thurrock Council's Fair Debt Policy thoroughly. Understanding their approach to debt management will help you align your answers during interviews with their values and practices, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Thurrock Council, especially those in the Debt Management Team. They can provide valuable insights into the team culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Debt Court Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Debt Court Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, such as knowledge of debt collection processes and court procedures.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in debt management and court processes. Emphasise your negotiation skills and any previous roles that involved managing difficult conversations or working with the public.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the organisation. Mention specific experiences that align with the job requirements, such as your familiarity with the Money Claims on Line (MCOL) process and your understanding of the Thurrock Fair Debt Policy.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thurrock Council
✨Know Your Debt Collection Processes
Familiarise yourself with the specific debt collection processes relevant to the role, such as Council Tax and Non-Domestic Rates. Being able to discuss these processes confidently will demonstrate your expertise and suitability for the position.
✨Prepare for Court Scenarios
Since the role involves attending court hearings, practice how you would present cases in a courtroom setting. Understanding the County Court processes and being ready to discuss your approach to handling difficult conversations will be crucial.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Be prepared to provide examples of how you've successfully negotiated in past roles. Highlighting your experience in managing challenging discussions will show that you can handle the complexities of debt management effectively.
✨Understand the Fair Debt Policy
Make sure you have a clear understanding of Thurrock's Fair Debt Policy. Being able to articulate how this policy guides your work will reflect your alignment with the council's values and commitment to fair practices.