Business Rates Officer

We are currently looking to recruit a Business Rates Officer to our Business Rates & Corporate Debt Team.

The role is responsible for;

- Maximising revenue due to the council by accurately processing, visiting, collecting and recovering Business Rates due within the statutory requirements.

- Consistently offering the highest level of service to our customers resolving issues with the least amount of contact. 

At Level 2 (Grade E) the post holder will be expected to deal with more complex issues and cases, including taking the lead on investigative work, preparing case files and attending court. The main duties and responsibilities will be taken largely autonomously, using own initiative to secure best outcomes for the council, with limited supervision. 

The postholder is required to visit business premises as a lone worker so the ability to navigate around the district is essential.

About You

This is an exciting opportunity in a small, busy team.  If you like variety then this is the role for you.  Incorporating both an administrative and visiting role, no two days are ever the same.  The ability to adapt and proactively organise and prioritise work effectively to always meet deadlines and maintain high standards is essential.

The applicant should be keen to learn, proactive and committed to continued service and personal development and have excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to operate and build excellent working relationships at all levels.

Previous experience in a similar role is desirable however if you have previously been in an administrative role within a customer services environment and can interpret relevant legislation and Council policies and procedures and apply this to specific cases we would like to hear from you.

We have a hybrid working approach with an expectation that you will work from the Civic Centre in Folkestone at least one day per week.

Our Civic Centre is in the heart of Folkestone, with easy access to transport links, local shops, entertainment facilities and the seafront. We have a flexible working culture that supports and encourages Hybrid and flexible working arrangements. Recognised by Best Companies as an outstanding organisation to work for, we have a real focus on staff engagement, health & wellbeing and development.

Folkestone & Hythe District Council is an extraordinary place to live, work and visit. With an established arts and cultural hub and unrivalled regeneration, including the Garden Town Otterpool Park, the area is well connected. London is just under an hour away via the High-Speed rail link and access to mainland Europe via the Channel Tunnel.

For an informal discussion about this role please contact Sarah Calladine - Corporate Debt & Business Rates Team Leader, by email: Sarah.Calladine@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk

Closing date: 23:59 on Monday 22nd June 2025

Interview dates to be confirmed