- Service Leadership: Lead the Housing Advice & Homelessness team to deliver a high-performing, customer-focused service aligned with the council’s vision.
- Legislative Compliance: Ensure adherence to all relevant housing and homelessness legislation, keeping policies updated in response to case law and statutory guidance.
- Homelessness Prevention: Oversee the assessment of homelessness cases, implementing strategies to prevent homelessness and support individuals with sustainable housing solutions.
- Customer-Focused Delivery: Ensure a professional and empathetic approach in dealing with complex and often vulnerable customers.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Build strong partnerships with internal teams, government bodies, external agencies, and housing providers to enhance service delivery.
- Operational & Financial Management: Efficiently manage staff, budgets, and operational resources to deliver cost-effective services.
- Legal Representation: Coordinate responses to legal challenges and represent the council at hearings where necessary.
- Team Development: Identify skills gaps, implement training programmes, and ensure robust performance management processes.
- Fraud Prevention & Compliance: Maintain a proactive approach to preventing fraudulent applications and ensuring compliance with policies.
- Proven leadership experience in housing advice, homelessness prevention, and statutory assessments.
- A strong understanding of homelessness and housing legislation, including the Housing Act 1996, Localism Act 2011, and Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across different agencies.
- The ability to handle complex caseloads and deliver effective solutions in high-pressure situations.
- Strong financial and operational management skills, ensuring efficient service delivery.