HOUSING PORTFOLIO OFFICER-Full Time, Permanent
REPORTS TO: Regional Manager
REPORTS IN: NONE
WORKING HOURS: Full time -40 hours Monday to Friday 9am-6pm occasionally extending to 7pm/ On-call rota with additional compensation
LOCATION: Croydon Head Office and South London areas
SALARY: £30,000 per annum on FTE
ROLE: To manage a designated portfolio of Caridon's social housing properties-comprising Temporary Accommodation (TA) and Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST)-ensuring profitability, legal compliance, and high standards of property and tenant management. You will act as the central contact for your portfolio, coordinating across internal departments and external stakeholders to deliver efficient operations.
DUTIES INCLUDE:
1. Portfolio & Property Management
* Daily oversight of all operational aspects for your assigned properties.
* Identify and resolve issues proactively, proposing practical solutions.
* Maintain relationships with landlords, agents, councils, and internal departments.
* Collaborate with the Sales Team to identify and support new development opportunities.
* Ensure regular inspections are carried out and properties remain safe and compliant.
* Keep detailed, accurate records across tenancy, compliance, and maintenance.
1. Vacancy & Tenancy Management
* Advertise and manage vacant properties through to successful occupancy.
* Organise cleaning, repairs, and furniture replacement within agreed budgets.
* Shortlist tenants with your Manager and Housing Benefit Team; assess eligibility and suitability.
* Conduct applicant interviews, liaise with case workers, and complete the sign-up process.
* Manage Housing Benefit processes and resolve anomalies with local authority contacts.
* Maintain accurate tenancy data in Arthur and Plentific.
1. Ongoing Tenancy Management
* Coordinate tenant support and communication, including welfare checks, with the Manager and Housing Benefit Team.
* Work closely with the Maintenance Team to resolve property-related issues.
* Manage tenancy renewals, check-outs, and re-lettings.
* Serve or arrange appropriate legal notices for end-of-tenancy or agent notices.
* Oversee repairs and preparation of properties for re-letting.
* Implement systems that streamline Housing Benefit and maintenance workflows.
* Finalise landlord contracts and support rent negotiations.
1. Financial Management
* Ensure profitability across the portfolio by careful monitoring and planning.
* Review monthly financial reports, reconcile discrepancies, and liaise with Accounts and Credit Control.
* Minimise arrears and assist with rent collection when necessary.
* Seek authorisation for any major property expenses from the Regional Manager.
* Estimate and deliver property profitability forecasts, minimising back-end costs.
* Maintain a clear understanding of financial implications across all property decisions.
1. Compliance, Health & Safety
* Ensure full compliance with H&S and fire safety regulations.
* Conduct regular building inspections, fire alarm tests, and maintain escape route access.
* Coordinate with contractors for repairs and cleaning, maintaining high standards.
* Oversee key control and maintain inventory of white goods and beds.
1. Operational & Stakeholder Support
* Liaise with local authority officers, social workers, and external partners to ensure smooth tenancy management.
* Manage operational processes using Arthur, Plentific, and booking systems.
* Check booking emails and update systems with changes or cancellations.
* Support the Sales Team and collaborate with internal teams on strategic goals.
* Provide cover for colleagues during leave or absences.
* Participate in the on-call rota for emergencies (compensated call-outs).
GENERAL
* To contribute to the strategic direction of Caridon
* To keep up to date with housing benefit and legal regulations and to attend training courses to further enhance knowledge in the field
* To carry out specific tasks required by the portfolio department and in general administration and be a team player
* To always facilitate good relationships across all departments and sister companies
* To be pro-active and take initiative and offer improved processes and practises that will benefit the company in the long term
* To bring to the attention to your Regional Portfolio Manager any significant changes in the Tenant, Council or Property owner relationship
* To demonstrate and always encourage a good team spirit and support for the Company
* To be approachable and empathetic to tenants, Portfolio, Accounts, Housing Benefit and maintenance teams
* To be responsible with your timekeeping at all times
ESSENTIAL:
* Experience in property or tenancy management (ideally within social housing or TA).
* Understanding of Housing Benefit procedures and council liaison.
* Strong organisational and communication skills.
* Competency in property management platforms (e.g., Arthur, Plentific).
* Knowledge of H&S and compliance standards.
* Basic financial literacy and experience managing budgets.
DESIRED
* Full UK driving licence.
* Experience working with local authorities and vulnerable tenants.
* Familiarity with fire safety protocols and building compliance
COMPANY BENEFITS
* Health benefits package including life cover and cash back plan on medical treatments
* Company events including team-building activities and Christmas parties
* Competitive company pension plan
* Employee referral scheme
* Discount platform on favourite brands and services
* Generous 33 days of annual leave allowance
* Paid sick allowance