Collections Agent

• Salary Range: £30,651 - £31,774 pro rata (Fixed Term Contract) or £16.49 PAYE / £20.43 umbrella (Temporary)
• Location: Oxford
• Job Type: Fixed-term contract (6 months, likely to extend)

We are seeking two Recovery Officers to join our vibrant and successful team working for an Oxford local authority. This role is crucial in collecting Council Tax, Business Rates, and Housing Benefit overpayments to fund the delivery of our services. Ideal candidates will be hardworking, flexible, and possess excellent customer service and negotiation skills.

• Collecting monies owed to the local authority through various means.
• Attending court as necessary to represent the authority in recovery matters.
• Negotiating payment plans with debtors to ensure timely collection of dues.
• Referring suitable debtors to Advice Centres for additional support.
• Taking appropriate recovery action when a payment plan cannot be agreed upon.
• Identifying suitable cases for further action and escalating them as needed.
• Engaging in proactive communication, including a significant amount of outbound calls to individuals.

• Must have experience in local authority council tax and business rates recovery.
• Demonstrated ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to handle sensitive situations with tact.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication skills, with a focus on proactive outreach.

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunity to contribute to the delivery of essential local services.
• Be part of a supportive and dynamic team.
• Potential for contract extension.