At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage council tax recovery and support vulnerable customers with empathy.
- Company: Sunderland City Council, a supportive and collaborative workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic team environment with opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Confident communicator with negotiation skills and a commitment to customer service.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Sunderland City Council are looking to recruit two highly motivated Recovery Officers to work as part of a team dealing with the collection of Council Tax in accordance with the Council Tax (Administration and Enforcement) Regulations 1992. In this role you will be part of a proactive, efficient and effective Recovery Team. You will need to be confident, have excellent negotiation and communication skills and have the ability to be firm but fair in applying the law. You must be able to deal with difficult customers in a calm and courteous manner whilst recognising and assisting vulnerable customers. If you are enthusiastic and have the necessary skills to join our team and are dedicated to continuous improvement, we would like to hear from you.
About the role
- Manage a caseload of outstanding debt, including council tax recovery
- Communicate with customers via phone, digital channels, and written correspondence
- Negotiate payment arrangements and resolve complex cases
- Handle challenging or sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy
- Identify and support vulnerable customers, including referrals to support agencies
- Accurately record case activity using internal systems
- Keep up to date with relevant legislation, policies, and procedures
About You
We are looking for someone who is confident, adaptable, and committed to delivering excellent customer service.
Why join us?
- Competitive salary
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Pension scheme
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
If you are office based, it is a mandatory requirement that you work from your usual base for at least 2 days per week. This post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore will be subject to a DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.
To apply, please submit your application demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the Person Specification. Applications should be made on-line at northeastjobs.org.uk/sunderlandcitycouncil. Please note that CVs are not accepted.
Please note that all communication regarding your application for this post will be sent to the email address that you have registered online with North East Jobs, including your invitation to any online assessment you are required to undertake and your invite to interview if you are short-listed. Please check your email inbox after the closing date for notifications as you may not be notified by any other means. Please remember to check your junk mail items.
Recovery Officer (2 posts) in Sunderland employer: Sunderland City Council
Sunderland City Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where Recovery Officers can thrive. With competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their careers while making a meaningful impact in the community. The Council's commitment to continuous improvement and customer service ensures that staff are equipped to handle challenging situations with empathy and professionalism.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Recovery Officer (2 posts) in Sunderland
✨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 Sunderland City 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 Sunderland City 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 Recovery Officer (2 posts) in Sunderland
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 Sunderland City 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 Sunderland City Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Sunderland City 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 Sunderland City Council.
