Job Description
Collections Officer
6-Month FTC – Northampton
£36,286 per annum
37 hours per week, Monday–Friday
We are recruiting on behalf of our client for a Collections Officer to join their established income team on a 6-month fixed-term contract. This role is responsible for managing a designated patch of tenants, providing a proactive and supportive rent-collection service that helps maximise income while sustaining tenancies.
Duties
* Act as the main point of contact for all rent-related enquiries within an allocated patch.
* Carry out daily communication with tenants via phone, email, text, office appointments and home visits.
* Maximise income through effective rent and service-charge collection while ensuring vulnerable tenants receive appropriate support.
* Offer basic financial guidance, including budgeting support, benefit checks and income-maximisation advice (including UC, HB and DHPs).
* Negotiate realistic repayment arrangements and monitor compliance.
* Support tenants with benefit applications, ensuring claims are completed accurately and on time.
* Maintain accurate records across all systems and respond to all service requests within required timescales.
* Prepare and submit legal documentation for rent-arrears cases and, when required, attend court hearings and evictions on behalf of the organisation.
* Work collaboratively with external agencies such as Citizens Advice, Community Law Service, DWP and local authorities to support tenants and secure income.
* Keep up to date with welfare reform, benefit legislation and housing-related changes.
The Candidate
* Background in debt recovery, income collection or similar
* Knowledge of Housing Law, Housing Benefit, Universal Credit and welfare-reform measures
* Strong communication skills with the ability to support tenants in challenging circumstances
* Confident negotiating and managing repayment plans
* Competent IT skills and accurate record-keeping
* Ability to work independently, including lone working
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise
* Full UK driving licence