Control Manager

Description:

Lewisham Council, one of London’s most diverse and community-focused boroughs, is seeking an experienced and motivated Revenues & Benefits Control Manager to join its team. This is a key leadership position within the Council’s Revenues and Benefits service, responsible for managing system performance, ensuring compliance, and leading a dedicated team that delivers essential financial services to residents and businesses across Lewisham.

This role is designed for a strategic, analytical, and proactive leader who can ensure efficient and accurate administration of Council Tax, Housing Benefit, and Business Rates, while driving innovation and continuous service improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the Control Team in providing high-quality, customer-focused IT and systems support across Council Tax, Housing Benefit, and Business Rates services.

• Ensure the smooth operation of critical systems including MRI Revenues and Benefits and Enterprise (Information@Work).

• Oversee the year-end reconciliation and annual billing process, ensuring accuracy in benefit award letters and council tax bills in line with legislation.

• Manage and monitor third-party contracts, ensuring strong relationships and performance against agreed KPIs.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation related to Housing Benefit, Council Tax, and Business Rates.

• Provide expert oversight of Housing Benefit subsidy to maintain financial integrity and statutory compliance.

• Identify and implement service improvements through data analysis, innovation, and effective process management.

• Establish, monitor, and review performance standards and targets, ensuring continuous staff development and adherence to Council policies.

• Collaborate closely with IT, finance, and service delivery teams to maintain system integrity and ensure high-quality service delivery.

• Report regularly to the Business Rates Support & Development Manager on system performance and operational updates.

Requirements and Qualifications:

• Extensive experience within a Revenues and Benefits environment.

• Strong working knowledge of MRI Revenues and Benefits system and Enterprise (Information@Work).

• In-depth understanding of all legislation governing Housing Benefit, Council Tax, and Business Rates.

• Demonstrable experience managing teams and overseeing complex processes and systems.

• Proven ability to analyze, problem-solve, and implement process improvements.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.

• Proactive mindset with the ability to generate new ideas and adapt to change.

• Commitment to maintaining high-quality performance and service delivery standards.

• Must be highly motivated, able to work independently, and flexible to work early mornings, evenings, or weekends when required.

• Role subject to a Basic DBS check.

Benefits and Rewards:

• £52,269–£54,360 annual salary (appointments made at the minimum point of the pay scale)

• Generous holiday allowance

• Local Government Pension Scheme

• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements

• Training and professional development opportunities

• Family-friendly policies supporting work-life balance

• Season ticket and bicycle loans

• Subsidized local gym memberships and various staff discounts

• Supportive and inclusive workplace culture with active staff networks

About the Organization:

Lewisham Council is a forward-thinking local authority recognized as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, celebrating its rich cultural diversity and commitment to inclusion. The Council is dedicated to delivering exceptional public services, improving community well-being, and fostering equality and sustainability.

Employees at Lewisham Council benefit from a culture that values innovation, accountability, and teamwork, ensuring that every role contributes directly to improving the lives of local residents.