Client Affairs Team Lead in Ipswich

At Suffolk County Council, every role is a chance to create positive change. As a Client Affairs Team Lead within our Financial Inclusion and Advice Service (FIAS), you'll help some of Suffolk's most vulnerable residents by ensuring their finances are managed safely, effectively and compassionately. You'll lead a dedicated team supporting people through Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Appointeeships and Court of Protection Deputyships, helping to protect their financial wellbeing and independence.

Your role and responsibilities:

• Provide leadership, guidance and operational oversight to a team delivering specialist financial management services on behalf of adults supported by Adult Social Care.
• Lead, motivate and develop a team of Client Affairs Officers and Assistants, fostering a positive and high-performing culture.
• Provide expert advice and support on complex Court of Protection Deputyship and DWP Appointeeship cases.
• Oversee Court of Protection applications, Office of the Public Guardian reporting requirements and associated statutory responsibilities.
• Monitor financial transactions, property-related matters, charging arrangements and customer finances, ensuring compliance and accuracy.
• Manage complaints, compliments and customer feedback, promoting a responsive and person-centred approach.
• Develop and improve procedures, working closely with Adult Social Care colleagues and partner organisations to deliver the best possible outcomes for customers.
• Ensure high standards of governance, financial stewardship and service delivery across the team.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys leading people, solving complex problems and delivering services that make a meaningful difference every day.

You will need:

• Experience of leading, supervising or developing staff.
• Knowledge of DWP Appointeeships, Court of Protection Deputyships and the relevant legislation.
• Experience managing complex casework and making informed decisions.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex information clearly and sensitively.
• Good analytical, organisational and numerical skills.
• Experience interpreting legislation, policy and procedural guidance.
• Confidence using digital systems and maintaining accurate records.
• A Level 3 qualification, or equivalent knowledge and experience.

The Client Affairs Team is part of Suffolk County Council's Financial Inclusion and Advice Service (FIAS), a service dedicated to helping adults receiving support from Adult Social Care manage financial matters that can often be complex, sensitive and life-changing. We are a supportive, collaborative and highly knowledgeable team that is passionate about delivering excellent customer outcomes.

We value flexible working, professional development and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation.

For more information, please contact Sharon Thompson for a casual conversation. You can reach them by calling 01473 263920 or emailing Sharon.thompson@suffolk.gov.uk.

Closing date: 11.30pm, 8 September 2026. Interview date: Week commencing 21 September.

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.