At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to manage business rates billing, collection, and customer queries.
- Company: Croydon Council is dedicated to serving the community with ambition and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model and contribute to a service that impacts local residents.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team aiming to be London's best collection service while making a difference.
- Qualifications: Experience in collections, excellent communication skills, and a knack for negotiation are essential.
- Other info: This is a 2-year fixed-term role with opportunities for personal growth and community impact.
The predicted salary is between 29763 - 37068 £ per year.
Position Type: 2 years Fixed Term until 30 June 2027
Contract Type: Full Time
Number of Hours: 36 hours
About the role:
Croydon Council has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Revenues Officer in its Business Rates Collections Team. We are looking for a dynamic person to join us for a period of 2 years and help continue and improve the service we provide. We pride ourselves on doing the best for our community and, as a Revenues Officer, you will play a key part in this. We are fiercely ambitious and want to be the best collection service in London with our annual income target in Revenues exceeding £480m.
You will be dealing with all aspects of the billing, collection and recovery of business rates. You will be speaking to customers on the phone and replying to correspondence ensuring the records are updated with the relevant liability, relief and exemptions.
The successful candidate should have a proven track record in negotiating and taking payments by phone or written communication. Must possess excellent communication and organisational skills and be capable of negotiating and dealing with difficult situations in a tactful and assertive manner.
The purpose of the role is to provide an excellent service to all customers requiring assistance in resolving their account queries to enable the efficient collection and recovery of business rates to maximise customer satisfaction and revenue collection for the Council.
The role includes:
- Dealing with enquiries by telephone and written correspondence on all queries related to Business Rates
- Administering the Billing, Collection and Recovery of Business Rates
- Using collection experience to recover unpaid Business Rates
- Taking payments and negotiating payment plans
- Opening, closing and amending accounts
- Applying reliefs and exemptions
- Liaising with external companies such as Enforcement Agents
Experience with Northgate Revenues, Business Rates legislation and Enterprise is desirable. We operate a hybrid working pattern where you will be expected to attend the workplace twice a week.
If you are passionate about working for Croydon and making a difference to the services we deliver to the local residents, we want to hear from you. Previous unsuccessful applicants need not apply.
Closing date: Sunday 13th July 2025 @ 11.59pm
Interview dates: Week commencing 28th July 2025
Equal opportunities:
Croydon Council is an inclusive employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the advertised role. Croydon Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment.
Business Rates Collection Officer, Grade 4 - 7 (£29,763 - £37,068) employer: Croydon Council
Contact Detail:
Croydon Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Rates Collection Officer, Grade 4 - 7 (£29,763 - £37,068)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific legislation and regulations surrounding business rates. Understanding the legal framework will not only boost your confidence during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your negotiation skills, especially in handling difficult conversations. Role-playing scenarios with a friend or mentor can help you prepare for the types of interactions you'll have with customers regarding payments and account queries.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Croydon Council's current initiatives and goals, particularly in relation to revenue collection. Showing that you understand their ambitions and how you can contribute will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Croydon Council, if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Rates Collection Officer, Grade 4 - 7 (£29,763 - £37,068)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Business Rates Collection Officer position. Highlight key skills such as communication, negotiation, and organisational abilities in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience in business rates collection or similar roles. Emphasise your achievements in customer service and any experience with billing and recovery processes.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for working with Croydon Council and your commitment to providing excellent service. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully handled difficult situations or improved collection processes in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials 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 Croydon Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with business rates legislation and the specific responsibilities of a Revenues Officer. Understanding the nuances of billing, collection, and recovery processes will show your commitment and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves dealing with customers over the phone and in writing, prepare to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. Think of examples where you've successfully handled difficult conversations or resolved customer queries.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities, especially in challenging situations. Prepare scenarios where you had to negotiate payment plans or manage difficult accounts, highlighting your tact and assertiveness.
✨Express Your Passion for Community Service
Croydon Council values community service highly. Be ready to discuss why you're passionate about working for the council and how you can contribute to improving services for local residents.