Benefits Team Leader

Wealden District Council; Hailsham; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in the UK is seeking a Benefits Team Leader to manage a team delivering Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support services. The role involves overseeing daily operations, processing claims, and ensuring customers receive the financial support they deserve. Ideal candidates will possess strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills, with thorough knowledge of benefits legislation. This position offers a competitive salary and opportunities for professional development in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Pension scheme

Incremental progression

Supportive team

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid working

Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of benefits legislation and guidance required.
• Strong leadership skills needed to manage a team of officers.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the benefits team.
• Ensure customers receive the financial support they need.
• Oversee claims processing and resolve queries.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Knowledge of benefits legislation

Customer service

Job description

Are you passionate about helping people in need and making a difference in your community?

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a Benefits Team Leader to join our team.

What will the role involve?

In this role, you will manage a team of officers who deliver Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support services to our customers, ensuring that they receive the financial support they are entitled to and need.

You will be responsible for overseeing the day‑to‑day operations of the benefits team, including processing claims, verifying evidence, resolving queries, and combating fraud.

You will also monitor and improve the quality and performance of the service and ensure that it meets the standards and expectations of our customers, partners, and regulators.

What skills, knowledge and abilities do you require for the role?

To succeed in this role, you will need to have a thorough knowledge and understanding of benefits legislation and guidance, as well as strong leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills. You will also need to have a positive and proactive attitude, and a commitment to delivering excellent customer service and continuous improvement.

What do we offer?

• Competitive salary & pension scheme.
• Incremental progression subject to satisfactory performance.
• A friendly, supportive team.
• Opportunities for continuing professional development.
• Hybrid working

About Wealden

Wealden District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.

We are committed to maintaining a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment. We value the differences that people bring from all backgrounds and communities, and all applications will be treated on merit.

Ethical Use of AI in Applications

We welcome innovation and do not automatically exclude candidates who use AI tools during the application process. However, we assess each application to ensure the candidate genuinely understands the role and its requirements.

AI may be used ethically and responsibly, provided it supports, rather than compromises our core values of integrity, transparency, and fairness. During assessments and interviews, candidates must present their own skills and experience without assistance from others, external resources, or AI, unless explicitly instructed otherwise.