Benefits Manager

We are seeking a Benefits Manager to lead and develop our Benefits team, ensuring efficient, accurate and customer-focused service delivery.

About the Role

As Benefits Manager, you will be responsible for managing the benefits function within the Revenues & Benefits service, with a focus on Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and related workstreams. You will provide strategic and operational leadership, oversee the delivery of high-quality work, and ensure compliance with legislative and service standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team within a busy Revenues & Benefits service, providing line-management support, development and performance oversight.

• Oversee the accurate processing of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction cases in line with legislation and best practice.

• Provide technical guidance on complex assessments, legislative changes and policy implementation.

• Manage work allocation and workflow to ensure performance targets and service standards are consistently achieved.

• Conduct appraisals, manage absence, and support staff development through coaching and training.

• Work collaboratively with internal teams and external partners to resolve customer matters and improve service outcomes.

• Support continuous service improvement, ensuring processes are efficient, compliant with statutory regulations and reflect best practice.

• Assist with monitoring income and expenditure within the service area, contributing to financial oversight and reporting.

Person Specification

• Strong working knowledge of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction legislation and statutory guidance.

• Proven experience using Civica Open Revenues or similar systems, including workflow and case management.

• Previous leadership or supervisory experience within a Revenues or Benefits team.

• Experience working in a performance-driven local government environment.

• Ability to interpret complex legislation accurately and make sound operational decisions.

• Excellent organisational, leadership and communication skills with a focus on customer service and quality outcomes.

• Confidence handling sensitive and confidential information with discretion.