Job description

8 Months Contract with a Local Authority

£45.05/Hr

35hrs / week

Location: Tower Hamlets

Summary:

This is a pivotal position within our Housing Options Service, responsible for the development, procurement, and management of our temporary accommodation portfolio. You will ensure a sufficient supply, efficient allocation, and robust management of accommodation to prevent and relieve homelessness, strictly in line with statutory requirements and best practice. This role is crucial in guiding the Council’s housing management and income recovery functions during significant changes. This includes leading on temporary accommodation strategy and income collection performance, while embedding responses to legislative reform, ombudsman standards, and judicial scrutiny. As Operations Manager, you will lead and develop a high-performing team, set ambitious objectives, and drive continuous improvement. You will be accountable for financial performance, strategic improvement, and the delivery of outstanding customer service standards. The role also involves partnership working across boundaries, representing the service internally and externally, and ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and council policies.

Responsibilities:

Manage the Housing Management and Procurement Service, ensuring efficient allocation and management of temporary accommodation.
Develop and maintain partnerships to enhance service delivery and continuous improvements.
Ensure compliance with statutory requirements and council policies.
Lead and develop staff, setting objectives to meet performance requirements.
Oversee financial performance, including strategic marketing and publicity campaigns.
Handle complex cases and legal inquiries, preparing for court as necessary.
Analyze and improve rental and income collection performance.
Ensure IT systems are in place for data management and compliance with data protection legislation.
Manage staff recruitment, training, and development.
Respond to inquiries and complaints from Councillors, MPs, and the Ombudsman.
Contribute to the council’s priorities and outcomes, promoting a ‘one organization’ approach.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders and communities.
Promote equality and non-discriminatory service delivery.
Support organizational change and learning, encouraging innovation and accountability.

Requirements

Up-to-date knowledge of relevant legislation, guidance, and case law.
Ability to develop and deliver comprehensive housing management services.
Experience in procurement processes and contract management.
Strong understanding of government housing policies and challenges.
Degree or related professional qualification, or equivalent experience.
Experience in a supervisory role within a housing or related environment.
Financial management and business planning experience.
Ability to work across boundaries with stakeholders and providers.
Commitment to the council’s TOWER Values, promoting teamwork, openness, willingness to innovate, excellence, and respect.
Willingness to work outside contractual hours as needed.

Operations Manager, Housing Management & Income Recovery