Head of Service - Housing Income in Bristol

We are seeking an exceptional leader to join our senior Housing team as Head of Service – Housing Income, leading a critical service at the heart of our landlord function. The role is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational delivery and continuous improvement of housing income services, ensuring we maximise income, sustain tenancies and deliver fair, person‑centred outcomes for residents across the city.

As Head of Housing Income, you will lead the Council's approach to rent and service charge collection, arrears prevention and recovery, and tenancy sustainment, driving high performance and strong customer outcomes.

• Develop and deliver the Housing Income Strategy, aligning to corporate priorities and financial plans
• Provide expert leadership on rent policy, service charges and income management performance
• Lead improvement programmes that increase collection rates, reduce arrears and strengthen resident support
• Oversee a wide portfolio including rent collection, service charges, leaseholder income, temporary accommodation, heat networks and wider income streams
• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory and building safety requirements, embedding strong governance and assurance
• Use data, insight and forecasting to inform decision‑making and drive continuous improvement

We are looking for a senior leader with a strong track record in housing income or related services who brings both strategic insight and operational grip.

• Significant senior experience in income management, housing operations or related services
• Proven success in rent and service charge collection, arrears management and tenancy sustainment
• Experience leading complex services, budgets and performance frameworks at scale
• Strong understanding of housing legislation and regulatory standards (including Housing Acts, Equality Act, Pre‑Action Protocol and RSH standards)
• A track record of service transformation, digital improvement and data‑led performance management
• Experience working in partnership with DWP, courts, local authorities and support agencies
• Excellent leadership, influencing and communication skills, with the ability to drive improvement through others

This is an opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the future of housing services in Bristol – delivering services that are financially resilient, compliant and focused on improving outcomes for residents. As part of a collaborative senior leadership team, you will work on driving service transformation, strengthening regulatory assurance and delivering high‑quality, resident‑centred services at scale.

We offer a competitive salary, generous holiday entitlement, flexible working options, access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and much more.

At Bristol City Council, we are committed to building a workforce diverse as the city we serve. We welcome and promote people from all sections of the community, particularly Applicants from Young People, Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and Female groups who are currently under‑represented in this Service. Appointments will be made on merit.