We're looking for a Recovery Officer to join our Revenues team and play a key role in maximising the collection of Council Tax and Business Rates while supporting residents and businesses through financial challenges.
This is a rewarding and varied role where you'll manage a caseload of recovery accounts, apply legislation and professional judgement, and work closely with customers, enforcement agencies and internal partners to achieve positive outcomes. If you have excellent customer service skills, a passion for problem solving and the ability to manage complex cases with professionalism and empathy, we'd love to hear from you.
As a Recovery Officer, you will be responsible for progressing Council Tax and Business Rates accounts through the recovery process, ensuring all actions are compliant with legislation, council policy and best practice.
You will handle a wide range of recovery activities, from managing payment arrangements and enforcement action through to dealing with more complex cases involving insolvency, bankruptcy, charging orders, Debt Relief Orders and Breathing Space regulations.
The role requires strong communication skills, sound decision-making and a customer-focused approach. You'll work with residents, businesses and external agencies to maximise collection rates while identifying vulnerable customers and ensuring they receive appropriate support and advice.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a caseload of Council Tax and Business Rates recovery accounts.
- Progress recovery action in line with legislation and council procedures.
- Prepare and process court and post-court recovery work.
- Handle complex customer enquiries relating to recovery and enforcement action.
- Liaise with Enforcement Agents, court officers and other stakeholders.
- Administer technical recovery processes including insolvency, IVAs, Debt Relief Orders and charging orders.
- Conduct tracing and investigations to maximise revenue collection.
- Support vulnerable customers by identifying appropriate financial assistance and support services.
- Monitor payment arrangements and take timely action where necessary.
- Contribute to achieving service targets for collection, arrears reduction and income maximisation.
- Represent the Council at court hearings and tribunals when required.
Benefits
- Hybrid working 3 days in the office, 2 days working from home
- Flexible working and Flexi-leave
- 29 Days annual leave, plus bank holidays
- Excellent Pension Scheme
- Free Parking
- Training and development opportunities
- Payment of one professional membership per annum
- Cycle to work + further related discounts
- Season ticket loan
- Health insurance plan after 1 years’ service/ Dental after 3 years' service
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Salary
Please note that Runnymede Borough Council is currently undertaking a pay and grading review, which is expected to be implemented during the summer. The successful applicant will be appointed under the Council’s current grading and salary structure and, following implementation of the new framework, will be assimilated into the revised pay structure in line with all existing employees.
This grading in the new pay structure for this role will be RBC3 (£30,767 - £33,631)
We're looking for someone who can combine strong customer service skills with the ability to interpret legislation and make informed decisions. You will have:
Essential Requirements
- Good GCSEs (or equivalent), including English and Maths.
- Experience working with a variety of IT systems.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong numerical and analytical skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- A flexible and adaptable approach.
- Excellent customer care skills.
Desirable Requirements
- Experience working in a busy office environment.
- Knowledge of, or ability to quickly learn, complex legislation.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- A collaborative and team-focused approach.
- Self-motivation and a proactive attitude.
Interview Date: 21st August 2026
Runnymede is an ambitious, passionate, and progressive council with a forward- thinking attitude and award-winning departments. As a Borough Council, we are committed to our core values which we demonstrate through our ongoing policies and projects. We continually strive to improve our services and welcome innovative and proactive individuals who are open minded and have a positive approach in supporting our vision.
From March 2027, Runnymede Borough Council will become part of the new West Surrey Unitary Council as part of the Local Government Reorganisation across Surrey. West Surrey will bring together the full range of local government services under one organisation, creating simpler, more efficient and more responsive services for our communities.
As one of the largest unitary authorities in the country, West Surrey will serve a diverse population across a region with a strong economy, vibrant communities, and significant opportunities for growth and innovation. The scale and variety of our work will provide a wide range of career pathways, professional development opportunities, and the chance to contribute to shaping an ambitious, modern, resident‑focused council. It is an exciting time to join us as we build West Surrey together.
Runnymede Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults with care support needs and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. You may be requested to present your identification at the interview stage and there will be several checks conducted during the onboarding process inclusive of an enhanced DBS check for specified roles.
All applications are handled in compliance with our privacy policy
Use of AI in your application
We understand that some applicants may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with preparing their applications.
All submitted information whether supported by AI or not must accurately reflect the applicant’s own skills, experience, and qualifications. Recruitment decisions will be based on how well applicants demonstrate these attributes during the interview and selection process.
