At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead improvements in housing services and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Company: Join Runnymede Borough Council, a progressive social landlord serving 3,000 households.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of an ambitious council shaping the future of local government.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community while developing your career in social housing.
- Qualifications: Experience in social housing and strong analytical skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 48012 - 52482 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join Runnymede Borough Council as we continue our positive work in the Housing Service. Runnymede Borough Council is a social landlord to 3,000 households. This exciting new, temporary role of Service Improvement Officer has been created following our recent regulatory inspection.
As the Service Improvement Officer you will:
- Help us ensure our Improvement Programme is fully implemented.
- Help us evidence compliance with the Regulator of Social Housing’s Consumer Standards.
- Work in the Service Improvement team, deputising for the Service Improvement Manager, supervising the Housing Policy Officer and indirectly supervising the Engagement and Inclusion Officer and Policy and Performance Officer.
- Provide analysis and feedback to inform and shape improvements in the delivery of excellent Housing services.
- Collect and analyse data to provide insight into the needs and priorities of our customers.
- Support with reviewing and improving IT functionality to ensure outcomes are measured and all operational activity is performance managed.
- Provide project management support to teams engaged in improvement activity ensuring that objectives are smart and milestones are achieved.
- Ensure that customer insight activity is focused and provides data necessary to identify and monitor service improvements.
Benefits:
- Hybrid working: 3 days in the office, 2 days working from home.
- Flexible working: 7am-7pm (Core hours are 10am & 2.30pm-4pm) and Flexi-leave.
- 29 Days annual leave, plus bank holidays.
- Excellent Pension Scheme, including access to an Additional Voluntary Contributions.
- Free Parking.
- Training and development opportunities.
- Payment of one professional membership a year.
- Cycle to work and further related discounts.
- Season Ticket Loan.
- Health insurance plan after 1 years' service/Dental after 3 years' service.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
Please note that Runnymede Borough Council is currently undertaking a pay and grading review, which is expected to be implemented during the summer. The successful applicant will be appointed under the Council’s current grading and salary structure and, following implementation of the new framework, will be assimilated into the revised pay structure in line with all existing employees. The grading in the new pay structure for this role will be RBC7 with a salary range of £48,012 - £52,482.
We are looking for exceptional candidates with a range of skills, including:
- Experience of working for a social housing landlord or in social housing regulation.
- An understanding of the statutory and regulatory requirements of a social housing landlord.
- Excellent MS Office skills including Co Pilot, with the confidence to use the most effective application for particular tasks.
- Strong organisational and analysis skills.
Runnymede is an ambitious, passionate, and progressive council with a forward-thinking attitude and award-winning departments. As a Borough Council, we are committed to our core values which we demonstrate through our ongoing policies and projects. We continually strive to improve our services and welcome innovative and proactive individuals who are open-minded and have a positive approach in supporting our vision.
From March 2027, Runnymede Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey Unitary Council as part of the Local Government Reorganisation across Surrey. West Surrey will bring together the full range of local government services under one organisation, creating simpler, more efficient and more responsive services for our communities. As one of the largest unitary authorities in the country, West Surrey will serve a diverse population across a region with a strong economy, vibrant communities, and significant opportunities for growth and innovation. The scale and variety of our work will provide a wide range of career pathways, professional development opportunities, and the chance to contribute to shaping an ambitious, modern, resident-focused council. It is an exciting time to join us as we build West Surrey together.
Runnymede Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults with care support needs and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. You may be requested to present your identification at the interview stage and there will be several checks conducted during the onboarding process inclusive of an enhanced DBS check for specified roles. All applications are handled in compliance with our privacy policy.
We understand that some applicants may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with preparing their applications. All submitted information whether supported by AI or not must accurately reflect the applicant’s own skills, experience, and qualifications. Recruitment decisions will be based on how well applicants demonstrate these attributes during the interview and selection process.
Service Improvement Officer (Housing) employer: Runnymede Borough Council
Runnymede Borough Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and community engagement. With opportunities for professional growth and a generous benefits package, including 29 days of annual leave and a robust pension scheme, employees can enjoy a fulfilling career while making a meaningful impact in the local area. The hybrid working model further enhances work-life balance, making it an attractive place for those seeking rewarding employment in public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Improvement Officer (Housing)
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Improvement Officer (Housing)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Runnymede Borough Council
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Runnymede Borough Council.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Runnymede Borough Council that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
