Rent Officer

An established supported housing provider with over 40 years of history is continuing to grow, delivering vital accommodation and support services to individuals and communities across the country.

With over 1,000 homes and more than 100 staff, the organisation provides a range of supported housing services, including accommodation for vulnerable residents and domestic abuse support. Following a period of significant growth and organisational change, they are looking to strengthen their housing team with the appointment of a Rent & Benefits Officer.

The role

Reporting to the Finance Manager and working closely with the wider housing team, you will play a key role in maximising rental income, maintaining accurate rent schedules and ensuring residents receive the appropriate support with their housing benefit and Universal Credit claims.

This is a varied, hands-on position offering the opportunity to work with residents, local authorities, housing teams and partner organisations. You will take ownership of key rent and benefits processes, helping to improve controls, resolve outstanding issues and support the continued growth of the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and review rent schedules, including annual reviews and the assessment of schedules for new housing partners.

• Liaise with local authorities and the Department for Work and Pensions to ensure housing benefit and Universal Credit claims are processed accurately and income is maximised.

• Allocate benefit payments to resident accounts, investigate discrepancies and resolve queries relating to claims, suspensions, overpayments and outstanding balances.

• Lead weekly Rent Action Plan meetings with housing teams, reviewing rent arrears, outstanding payments and actions required.

• Support residents and former residents with outstanding debts, budgeting, repayment plans and recovery processes where appropriate.

• Produce management information and reports covering rent schedules, benefit claims, rent arrears, voids and payment performance.

• Maintain accurate rent account records, reconcile bad debt information and ensure appropriate financial adjustments are made.

• Review partner housing providers' rent schedules and provide guidance to colleagues on rent management and benefit-related matters.

• Work collaboratively with housing professionals, welfare agencies, local authorities and other relevant stakeholders to resolve issues and maximise income.

About you

To be considered for this opportunity, you will have:

• Essential experience in housing, with a strong understanding of housing benefit and Universal Credit.

• Experience managing or reviewing rent schedules and working with rent accounts, arrears or housing-related income.

• The ability to investigate discrepancies, resolve queries and maintain accurate records.

• Confidence liaising with local authorities, residents and a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

• Strong communication and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.

• A proactive and practical approach to problem-solving, with a focus on maximising income and improving processes.

Experience within supported housing, housing associations or other housing providers would be particularly beneficial. A finance background within the housing sector would also be welcomed.

Professional qualifications are not essential; relevant housing experience and technical knowledge are the priority.

What's on offer?

• Salary of £35,000 per annum.

• The opportunity to join a growing organisation with a clear social purpose.

• A varied role with ownership of important rent and benefits processes.

• The chance to work closely with housing and finance teams, helping improve processes and support residents.

Please note: This is a fully office-based position in Bedford, with attendance required five days per week.