Job Description

About the Role

We're looking for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented

Accounts Receivables Officer

to join our team at one Source, serving the boroughs of Newham and Havering. You will play a vital role in managing the Council's sundry debts, helping to maximize income and maintain strong relationships with residents, businesses, and internal departments.

This is a varied and rewarding role suited for someone who enjoys problem-solving, working with data, and providing excellent customer service.

Key Responsibilities

Debt Collection & Recovery

Administer and monitor the collection of sundry debts (Trade Waste, Commercial Rent, Adult Social Care, etc.) Issue invoices, reminders, final notices, and statements. Follow up on outstanding payments and negotiate suitable repayment arrangements. Refer unpaid debts to debt collectors, enforcement agents, or legal teams when necessary. Investigate missing payments and process refunds or adjustments where needed.

Customer Service & Communication

Handle customer enquiries by phone, email, and face-to-face in a professional and empathetic manner. Support vulnerable customers with tailored advice and flexible arrangements. Work closely with internal departments (e.g., Adult Social Care, Trade Waste) to resolve complex cases. Interview customers to gather details, update accounts, and agree on payment solutions.

Data Management & Administration

Accurately maintain customer records and receivables systems. Ensure compliance with legislation, data protection, and council procedures. Prepare reports and performance statistics as required. Assist with setting up and amending Direct Debits and processing telephone payments. Process County Court claims, attend court if necessary, and maintain a full audit trail.

Team Support & Improvement

Provide day-to-day support to colleagues and contribute to team goals. Train new staff members and share best practices. Participate in testing system updates and continuous service improvement. Identify and report fraudulent activities and assist with safeguarding concerns.

What We're Looking For

Experience in debt recovery, finance, or customer service (preferably within a local authority or similar environment). Excellent communication and negotiation skills. Strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability. Comfortable working with financial systems and handling confidential information. A team player who can also work independently and manage their own workload. Understanding of relevant legislation (Data Protection Act, financial regulations, etc.).

What We Offer

A collaborative, supportive working environment. Opportunities to develop your skills and progress your career. The chance to make a meaningful impact on your local community. Flexible working across Newham and Havering council sites.

Interested?

Apply now and join us in delivering a fair, efficient, and customer-focused income service.

To succeed in this role, you'll need a mix of professional experience, skills, and personal qualities. We're looking for someone who's not just capable, but also passionate about making a difference.

Skills & Abilities

Strong communication skills - both written and verbal. Confident working with a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds. Able to work independently and as part of a team. Skilled at managing your time and workload effectively. Good attention to detail and a methodical approach to tasks. Comfortable using your own initiative to solve problems. Able to stay calm and professional under pressure. Confident preparing clear reports and documents. Effective interpersonal skills - approachable and helpful. Ability to manage, motivate and support others (if needed). Willing and able to learn new IT systems quickly. Committed to personal development and continuous improvement. Positive, inclusive attitude - willing to challenge discrimination and promote equality. Open to customer feedback and committed to improving service quality.

Experience & Knowledge

We'd love to hear from you if you have experience in:

Working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Debt recovery - ideally in local government or a similar setting. Using multiple IT systems for processing financial information. Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, as well as Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS). Providing excellent customer service, both over the phone and face-to-face. Handling sensitive or complex customer issues with empathy and professionalism. Interpreting and following internal processes and procedures. Spotting errors and resolving discrepancies quickly and accurately.

Behaviours & Values

We're looking for someone who:

Always treats others with respect and professionalism. Listens to customers and values their input. Is proactive about improving how things are done. Takes ownership of their work and performance. Acts with integrity and fairness at all times. Supports a positive, inclusive team culture.
If this sounds like you, we'd love for you to apply and become part of our team!

Additional Information:

Privacy Assurance:
We take your privacy seriously and are committed to protecting your personal data. All data provided during the application process will be handled in strict compliance with GDPR regulations. This includes securely storing and processing your personal details solely for recruitment purposes. By submitting your application, you consent to the use of your data for the purpose of assessing your suitability for the position. We will not share your information with third parties without your consent unless required by law. For more information on how we protect and process your personal data.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 5.5 months

Pay: 13.16 per hour

Expected hours: 36 per week

Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Romford RM1 3AR

Expected start date: 26/05/2025