Business Rates Manager

Business Smart Solutions; Cheltenham; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working arrangements

Wellness programs

Employee resource groups

Access to Virtual GP service

Gymflex scheme for gym memberships

Job summary

Business Smart Solutions based in Cheltenham, United Kingdom, is seeking a skilled individual to manage complex client portfolios and verify rates bills across the UK. The ideal candidate will possess a robust understanding of rate liabilities, with experience in client relations and report delivery.

We emphasize work-life balance with a hybrid working policy and a culture of inclusivity. Employees benefit from wellness programs, flexible working arrangements, and training opportunities, making it a supportive environment for career growth.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of calculating rate liabilities in various regions.
• Experience with business rate legislation and case law.
• Ability to explain complex topics clearly.

Responsibilities

• Manage large client portfolios and verify rate bills.
• Liaise with clients and billing authorities for corrections.
• Create accurate reports for clients and management.

Skills

Understanding of rate liabilities

Negotiating and reasoning skills

Financial and numeracy skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Cheltenham, United Kingdom | Posted on 06/07/2026

The Rating team at WSP is a highly skilled and specialised group, dedicated to providing exceptional Rating and Valuation services to clients in the commercial real estate sector. With an in-depth understanding of the complex rating landscape, our team combines extensive industry knowledge with strategic insights to deliver accurate and insightful assessments. We pride ourselves on our ability to navigate changing regulations and market conditions, providing clients with the expertise they need to optimise their property portfolios and minimise their tax liabilities. With a proven track record of excellence and a commitment to delivering results, the Rating team at WSP is the trusted partner that clients turn to for comprehensive and reliable rating services.

This role will involve, but not be limited to:

• Daily operational management of one large complex client portfolio or multiple smaller portfolios.
• Verification of rates bills issued by billing authorities in respect of properties throughout England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. Resolving queries where rates bills are not approved.
• Liaising with clients and with billing authorities to correct matters relating to occupational changes, changes to the rating list and exemptions and reliefs.
• Obtaining information from clients and responding to queries.
• Ensuring all portfolio movement is actioned appropriately.
• The creation and delivery of quality and accurate reports to clients and senior management.
• The development and maintenance of client relationships, including attendance at client meetings when appropriate.
• Meeting all KPIs as set out in Client Contracts and Service Level Agreements to agreed deadlines and to standards agreed with the Client Director and Line Manager.
• Assisting in carrying out one‑off audits of historic rate payments.
• Explaining the functions of the Client Monies service to clients and colleagues and undertaking Client Monies tasks when appropriate.

Requirements

We'd want to hear from you if you have the following:

• A good understanding of the complexities of calculating rate liabilities together with rating appeal and rate relief application processes in England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Eire and the Channel Islands.
• Working knowledge of business rate legislation and case law and able to explain this clearly to clients and junior colleagues.
• Excellent negotiating and reasoning skills when dealing with billing authorities, utilising knowledge of business rate legislation and case law to support their requests.
• Understanding of the importance of accuracy, timeliness and presentation in client reporting.
• Sound financial and numeracy skills which demonstrate accuracy and financial priority.
• A complete understanding of the functions of the Client Monies Service and the requirements of RICS Rule 8 Protecting Client Money.
• Proficient in use of desktop software and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel. Able to apply intermediate formulas to manipulate data.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

Work‑life balance

At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community. Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging

We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP. We have our employee resource groups bring together employees and allies with different backgrounds to promote a culture of inclusivity. We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need. Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits program, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.

Flex your time

To enhance work‑life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. We also provide part‑time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you. We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.