R2R103731 - 131896 - Senior Revenues Training Officer in Southend-on-Sea

Your New Organisation

Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend. Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovative environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work-life balance. As a Unitary Authority, we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Your new role

We are currently seeking a Senior Revenues Training Officer to join our Revenues Team on a full-time and permanent contract. This role is offered on a hybrid basis which is a blend of working from home and office. As a Senior Revenues Training Officer, you will be responsible for responding to, acting and providing expert technical advice on complex customer queries, including complaints, and enquiries from Councillors and MPs, responding on behalf of the Revenues Manager or Head of Service when appropriate, complying with the Council’s agreed policies and procedures. You will play a key role in developing staff and strengthening the performance of the Council’s Revenues service. You will design and deliver training for Council Tax and Business Rates teams, support new and existing staff, and ensure all training materials are accurate and aligned with current legislation. You will also work with neighbouring authorities to deliver training as required.

Your role will involve supporting recruitment activities, arranging ICT access for new starters, monitoring the quality and progress of trainees, and providing expert technical advice to colleagues. You will assist Team Leaders by helping manage complex cases, supervising staff when needed, and responding to escalated customer enquiries. You will also be responsible for managing Freedom of Information requests, preparing responses to complex complaints and enquiries, and keeping the Council’s website and correspondence templates up to date. You will contribute to service improvements by preparing performance reports, identifying potential fraud cases for referral, and representing the Revenues service in major corporate projects, including procurement, system testing and implementation. You will help ensure the service operates efficiently, meets its targets and delivers clear, accurate information to residents and partners. You will undertake any other duties appropriate to the grade and level of work as reasonably required by the Assistant Revenues Manager.

What you’ll need to succeed

To be successful in this role, you will bring strong experience in local taxation, administration and a solid understanding of debt recovery. You should be confident in developing and delivering training, managing competing priorities, and working directly with customers in challenging situations. Experience supervising or leading staff is essential, along with the ability to explain complex information clearly. You will be comfortable presenting to groups, working collaboratively across teams and services, and ensuring compliance with GDPR, equality, diversity and health and safety requirements. An IRRV qualification is desirable but not essential if you have extensive relevant experience. Strong communication skills, attention to detail and a proactive, supportive approach will help you thrive in this role.

What you’ll get in return

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab.

What you need to do now

If you are interested in this role, please click 'apply online' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.

Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all applicants for this role will require an enhanced DBS check.