At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage debt collection processes and represent cases in court.
- Company: Thurrock Council, a forward-thinking unitary authority on the River Thames.
- Benefits: Generous leave, flexible working, excellent training, and support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in debt collection and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equality and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 39027 - 44463 £ per year.
Situated on the River Thames, Thurrock is an ambitious unitary with vision and opportunities for its residents and businesses. Thurrock's Debt Management Team is a highly recognised service, having been nominated twice for the IRRV (Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation) Most Improved Team of the Year Award and was a finalist in 2012 and achieved a Bronze Award in 2013.
Responsibilities
- You will be responsible for effectively managing the major processes involved in the collection of the various portfolios of debt owed to the Council.
- Whilst working in the Debt Management Team, you will take your selected cases through the court processes by attending and presenting the cases at County Court and attending Magistrates Court hearings for both liability order hearings and committal means enquiry hearings.
Qualifications
- Confidence to be able to manage difficult conversations.
- A knowledge of debt collection processes (ideally Council Tax, non‑domestic rates and sundry).
- A knowledge of the Money Claims on Line (MCOL) process.
- A knowledge of the County Court processes and methods of enforcement.
- A clear understanding of the charging order, bankruptcy and committal processes.
- A full knowledge and understanding of the Thurrock fair debt policy.
- Experience using negotiation skills.
- Experience of communicating with members of the public.
- A full knowledge of the means enquiry process for committal hearings.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave entitlement – 25 days rising to 30 after 5 years’ service.
- Flexible working to support a good work‑life balance.
- An excellent employee assistance programme.
- Excellent training opportunities and an established CPD programme.
- Reflective supervision and management support.
DBS Check: A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check at Basic Level is required for this post.
Closing Dates
- Redeployment Only Applications: 6th November 2025.
- Internal and External Applications: 16th November 2025.
- Interview date: TBC.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Thurrock Council is committed to equal opportunities. As a Disability Confident Employer, disabled people will be offered an interview where they meet all essential criteria on the person specification. We serve a diverse community where people are different yet equal. Diversity underpins everything we do.
Senior Court Officer employer: Thurrock Council
Contact Detail:
Thurrock Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Court Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Debt Management Team and their work! Research their recent achievements and understand their processes. This will help you stand out during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your negotiation skills! Since you'll be managing difficult conversations, role-play with a friend or family member. This will boost your confidence and prepare you for those tricky discussions in real-life scenarios.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your knowledge of court processes, especially the County Court and MCOL. Familiarity with these will not only help you in interviews but also make you feel more prepared when you start the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Court Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities of the Senior Court Officer role. We want to see how you can contribute to our Debt Management Team!
Showcase Your Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of debt collection processes and court procedures in your application. Mention any relevant experience you have, especially with MCOL or committal hearings, as this will really catch our eye.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to convey your qualifications and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thurrock Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of debt collection processes, especially Council Tax and non‑domestic rates. Familiarise yourself with the Money Claims on Line (MCOL) process and the County Court methods of enforcement. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also well-prepared.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Role-play some difficult conversations you might face in the job. Whether it's negotiating with a debtor or presenting a case in court, practising these scenarios can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to share specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed similar responsibilities. Highlight your negotiation skills and any instances where you've communicated effectively with the public, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Understand Their Values
Thurrock Council values diversity and inclusion, so make sure you understand their fair debt policy and how it aligns with your own values. Be prepared to discuss how you would contribute to a positive and inclusive work environment.