At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team delivering Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction services in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Lewisham Council, making a real difference in diverse communities.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, pension scheme, flexible working, and staff discounts.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of welfare services while enhancing community support.
- Qualifications: Extensive knowledge of benefits legislation and proven leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 57495 - 59574 £ per year.
Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities!
The Revenues and Benefits Department is seeking an experienced and driven Senior Benefit Service Manager to lead the delivery of high-quality Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction services within a complex and fast-paced environment.
What’s the role?
You will manage high-performing teams responsible for Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and associated discretionary schemes, ensuring services are delivered efficiently, accurately and in line with legislation and corporate priorities. This is a key leadership role with responsibility for service performance, transformation and customer experience, supporting the service to achieve top quartile performance and adapt to an evolving welfare landscape.
What’s in it for you?
- Generous holiday allowance
- Local Government Pension scheme
- Flexible working and family friendly policies
- Season ticket and bicycle loans
- A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships
- Supportive staff networks
What We’re Looking For
- Extensive knowledge of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and welfare reform
- Extensive / in-depth knowledge of Housing Benefit legislation, including Support Exempt Accommodation (SEA)
- Extensive knowledge of subsidy work, audits (both internal and external), overpayments and other complex casework
- Proven experience managing high-volume Benefits operations
- Strong track record of improving service performance and efficiency
- Experience of leading, motivating and developing teams
- Ability to interpret legislation and implement operational change
- Strong analytical skills with experience using performance data
Location
The job is primarily based in Laurence House, but we operate a hybrid approach where you will be required to work both in the office and from home on a regular basis.
Special conditions
The job is subject to a basic DBS check. The recruitment process is anonymous and we don’t accept CVs.
Salary
£57,495 - £59,574 per annum (PO6).
Diversity
Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process. We support the access to work scheme, further details are available at.
Benefits Service Manager in London employer: Lewisham Council
Join Lewisham Council as a Benefits Service Manager and be part of a dynamic team dedicated to enhancing the lives of our diverse communities. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we offer generous holiday allowances, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. Our focus on high-quality service delivery, combined with a range of benefits including local government pension schemes and staff discounts, makes us an exceptional employer in the heart of Lewisham.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Benefits Service Manager in London
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Lewisham Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Lewisham Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Benefits Service Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Lewisham Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lewisham Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Lewisham Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Lewisham Council.
