Job Description:

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Private Sector Housing Team Leader.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Environmental Health, Private Sector Housing or Housing Enforcement professional looking for a senior position with responsibility for complex casework, enforcement and team management.

Location: Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford, SG17 5TQ
Working Pattern: Hybrid – office attendance as and when required
Rate: £26.00 per hour 
Contract: Until June 2027, with a high chance of extension

The Role:

You will play a key role in regulating and improving conditions within the private housing sector across Central Bedfordshire, using statutory powers and specialist knowledge to ensure housing standards are maintained.

You will also lead and support a team of Environmental Health Officers and Technical Officers, providing expert advice on complex cases and supporting the delivery of the Council's Private Sector Housing and Housing Assistance programmes.

Key Responsibilities

• Line manage a team of Environmental Health Officers and Technical Officers
• Oversee a range of Private Sector Housing functions
• Undertake and manage complex housing enforcement casework
• Provide specialist advice and guidance to officers dealing with complex cases and HMO matters
• Undertake first review of prosecution files, tribunal cases and financial penalty notices
• Assist with statutory notices, schedules of work and evidence files
• Use statutory powers to regulate and improve private sector housing conditions
• Support delivery of the Council's Housing Assistance Programme and associated schemes
• Provide expert advice to customers, landlords and other stakeholders
• Act as a first point of contact for customers regarding Private Sector Housing services

About You:

We are looking for an experienced housing professional with a strong background in Private Sector Housing, Environmental Health or Housing Enforcement.

Desirable:

• Private Sector Housing enforcement
• Housing Act 2004
• HHSRS (Housing Health and Safety Rating System)
• HMO inspections and enforcement
• Housing condition assessments
• Statutory notices and enforcement action
• Prosecution or legal enforcement work
• Financial/civil penalties
• Tribunal cases
• Complex case management
• Managing, supervising or mentoring Environmental Health/Housing Officers

Previous experience in a Senior EHO, Principal EHO, Private Sector Housing Officer, Housing Enforcement Officer, Housing Standards Officer or Private Sector Housing Team Leader/Manager position would be highly relevant.