At a Glance
- Tasks: Support tenants with rent payments and access to financial help while managing arrears.
- Company: Join SettleParadigm, the largest housing group in the region with a social purpose.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday, flexible working, and health cash plan.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and personal development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in communities while growing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in social housing and strong IT skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40369 - 40369 £ per year.
Salary: £40,369 + excellent benefits
Location: High Wycombe
Hybrid: 2 days in the office, 3 days from home
Contract: 6-month fixed-term
Hours: 37 hours per week
Are you looking to join a growing, values-led organisation with a clear social purpose? At SettleParadigm, we are proud to be the largest housing group in the region, managing over 30,000 homes across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire. Everything we do is about delivering excellent services, high quality homes, neighbourhoods we can be proud of and maximising the number of new affordable homes we build.
If you're ready to grow your career in a supportive, inclusive environment while helping to shape stronger communities, we'd love to welcome you on our journey. Together, we are building a better future.
We are looking for a Rent Recovery Officer to join our Income team on a 6-month fixed-term contract. This is an important role where you'll help residents sustain their tenancies, maximise their income and manage rent arrears in a fair, supportive and professional way.
About the Role
As a Rent Recovery Officer, you'll deliver a responsive and effective rent collection service, supporting tenants to stay on track with payments and access the right financial help. You'll balance firm but fair enforcement with a strong commitment to customer care. You'll work closely with colleagues across SettleParadigm, as well as external partners such as Local Authorities and the DWP. You'll also attend court hearings and evictions when required, so confidence in legal processes is important. This role is ideal for someone who is organised, calm under pressure and able to handle challenging situations with empathy and professionalism.
Key Responsibilities:
- Delivering a responsive rent collection service by phone, email, text and in-person visits
- Supporting tenants to access Housing Benefit, Universal Credit and other income-related support
- Carrying out affordability checks for new tenants
- Working closely with Local Authorities, DWP, Customer & Neighbourhood Officers and support teams
- Serving notices, preparing court applications via PCOL, attending hearings and managing evictions
- Providing regular updates on arrears levels, trends and KPIs
- Staying up to date with legislation and organisational policies
- Maintaining accurate records and case notes
What We're Looking For
Must haves:
- Experience working in the social housing sector
- Understanding of Housing Benefit, Universal Credit and tenancy legislation
- Strong IT skills (Word, Excel, Outlook) and confident written communication
- Ability to manage competing priorities and work assertively when needed
- A valid driving licence and access to a vehicle for business use (court attendance required)
Nice to haves:
- Experience attending court for rent arrears cases
- Knowledge of housing tenures such as shared ownership and assured tenancies
- Familiarity with county court protocols and possession processes
For added brilliance:
- Experience in a similar housing income role
- Understanding of the challenges tenants may face, such as unemployment, ill health, bereavement, addiction or anti-social behaviour
- A compassionate, solution-focused approach
Benefits
At SettleParadigm, we believe in creating an environment where our people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow. Our comprehensive benefits and rewards package reflects this commitment:
- Annual salary: £40,369 per annum
- 25 days holiday, increasing with service, plus Christmas closure and buy options
- Generous pension scheme up to 9.5% employer contribution via salary sacrifice
- Family-friendly leave: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave
- Health cash plan claim up to £1,800 for everyday health costs (plus free kids cover)
- Life cover and income protection
- Flexible working hybrid options, modern offices, free parking & EV charging
And that's just the beginning! We're also thrilled to provide:
- Mental Health First Aiders available to support
- Car leasing via salary sacrifice (for permanent colleagues subject to conditions)
- Funded training, qualifications & apprenticeships
- 3 paid volunteering days in the local communities
- Peer-recognition rewards platform
- Paid professional subscription (one per year)
Working Hours & Additional Pay
37 hours per week
09:00 - 17:30 Monday - Thursday
09:00 - 17:00 Friday
Our Commitment
We are committed to creating an inclusive workforce, by reflecting and representing the diversity of the communities we serve. We would like to encourage applications from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds; people who identify as disabled, neurodiverse, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from underrepresented groups.
Accessibility and Adjustments
We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and will always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. Please let us know in advance of any suitable arrangements required.
Due to the nature of some of our roles involving work with vulnerable members of society, this post may be subject to a basic or enhanced Criminal Disclosure, which will be carried out when a conditional offer is made. Please ensure you fully answer the questions on the application form.
Closing Date: 22nd July, 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the closing date should we find a suitable candidate.
Rent Recovery Officer (6m FTC) employer: Paradigm Housing
At Paradigm, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and community engagement. As a Customer Liaison Officer, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on residents' lives while benefiting from professional development and growth opportunities in the heart of our commitment to energy efficiency. Join us in a role that not only enhances your career but also contributes to a sustainable future for our communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Rent Recovery Officer (6m FTC)
✨Get Involved in Local Volunteering
Dive into some local volunteering opportunities! Nonprofits often look for temp workers who have a connection to the community they serve. By getting involved, you not only gain experience but also make valuable contacts in the sector.
✨Tap into Nonprofit Networks
Use platforms like Idealist or local nonprofit job boards to find temporary gigs. These spaces are buzzing with opportunities specifically tailored for social impact projects, making it easier for us to spot the ideal role at companies like Paradigm Housing!
✨Attend Sector-Specific Events
Join meetings, workshops, or talks hosted by organisations in the nonprofit realm. These events are perfect for making connections and learning about temporary roles that might not be widely advertised. Plus, you can showcase your passion for social impact right there!
✨Don’t Forget Online Applications!
When you spot a temporary role at Paradigm Housing that piques your interest, go ahead and apply through their website! Tailor your message to highlight how your skills align with their mission – it shows you care about the cause, which is key in this field.
We think you need these skills to ace Rent Recovery Officer (6m FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Impact:In the world of nonprofits, it's all about the passion and commitment to making a difference. Make sure your cover letter speaks genuinely about why you're excited about this role at Paradigm Housing. Share any experiences you've had with social impact projects or volunteering — it shows you live and breathe the cause!
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills:For a temporary position in the nonprofit sector, focus on showcasing any specific skills or experience related to project management, community engagement, or fundraising. List any relevant work or volunteer roles on your CV, and consider including quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous positions.
References from the Sector:Including references from previous roles in the nonprofit world can really bolster your application. If you've worked on similar social-impact projects before, ask those colleagues or supervisors if they'd be willing to vouch for your skills. This adds credibility and shows you're trusted in the sector, which can be a big plus for Paradigm Housing.
Be Ready for a Quick Turnaround:Since this role is temporary, let your interest shine through in your application! Mention in your cover letter your availability to start immediately or at short notice. It shows you're keen and ready to dive right into the exciting work at Paradigm Housing!
How to prepare for a job interview at Paradigm Housing
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
When interviewing for a role in the non-profit sector, especially for a temporary position, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for social impact. Discuss why the mission of Paradigm Housing resonates with you and share personal experiences that reflect your commitment to similar causes.
✨Demonstrate Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Non-profit projects often require quick pivots and resourcefulness. Be ready to share examples from your past where you've adapted to changing circumstances or tackled unexpected challenges. This will show your potential as a valuable, nimble team member for the Rent Recovery Officer (6m FTC) position.
✨Know Your Community Tools
Familiarise yourself with any tools or platforms that are widely used in the non-profit sector like project management software or stakeholder engagement tools. Show your readiness to hit the ground running in your temporary role by discussing any experience you have with these or similar platforms.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to field scenario-based questions during your interview to assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think about how you would handle challenges typical of the non-profit sector, such as engaging with diverse stakeholders or managing project timelines effectively.
