Strategic Benefits Services Manager

Lewisham Youth Service; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Local Government Pension scheme

Flexible working

Season ticket and bicycle loans

Staff discounts

Job summary

Lewisham Council is seeking a Senior Benefit Service Manager to lead Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and associated discretionary schemes, ensuring efficient, accurate services in a complex, fast-paced environment.

You will manage high‑performing teams, monitor performance data, interpret legislation and drive service transformation to deliver top‑quartile outcomes and a positive customer experience.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and welfare reform.
• Extensive / in-depth knowledge of Housing Benefit legislation, including Support Exempt Accommodation (SEA).
• Extensive knowledge of subsidy work, audits (both internal and external), overpayments and other complex casework.
• Proven experience managing high-volume Benefits operations.
• Strong track record of improving service performance and efficiency.
• Experience of leading, motivating and developing teams.
• Ability to interpret legislation and implement operational change.
• Strong analytical skills with experience using performance data.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery and continuous improvement of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and associated discretionary schemes.
• Manage high-performing teams responsible for Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and related services.
• Ensure services are delivered efficiently, accurately and in line with legislation and corporate priorities.
• Support transformation and customer experience to achieve top quartile performance in a changing welfare landscape.

Job description

Lewisham Council is seeking a Senior Benefit Service Manager to lead Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and associated discretionary schemes, ensuring efficient, accurate services in a complex, fast-paced environment.

You will manage high‑performing teams, monitor performance data, interpret legislation and drive service transformation to deliver top‑quartile outcomes and a positive customer experience.