Head of Collections

We currently have a Head of Collections position available for a motivated individual to join our team working in either Exeter or Bournemouth. You will receive a competitive salary of GBP75,000 per annum plus excellent benefits.

About the role of Head of Collections:

As Head of Collections, you are responsible for the development and delivery of the Collections' strategy across South West Water. Through effective leadership of the Collections and Meter Reading teams, you will implement sustainable improvements to our debt profile by adopting a holistic and effective approach to collections management capability across the business.

Responsibilities as our Head of Collections:

– Leading the Collections and Meter Reading teams so that we achieve our Purpose and key performance commitments for the business and our customers

– Leading and developing the collections and meter reading strategies to support the delivery of all internal and regulatory targets

– Working closely with our Finance department ensure that bad debt provisions are achieved and write off managed in line with the company's policies and procedures

– Ensuring that performance reporting is accurate and delivered to enable the business to understand and interrogate data and meet regulatory reporting requirements

– Providing advice to the Executive and Senior Management teams on customer collections and meter reading performance matters

– Developing an effective working relationship with Ofwat, CCW other internal and external stakeholders, demonstrating highly effective communication and presentation skills on technical matters

– Maintaining up to date knowledge and understanding of appropriate regulations in relation to collections and debt recovery

– Ensuring any litigation and subsequent activities are carried out compliantly and sensitively

– Developing cost and outcome–driven improvement frameworks

– Managing the Collections and Meter Reading budget

What we are looking for in our Head of Collections:

– Educated to degree level or equivalent through relevant training and experience

– Experience of working in a collection's environment within a regulated utility or retail environment

– Experience of leading and embedding change, able to influence and drive right culture and behaviours

– A confident, collaborative and proactive leader

– Project management skills

– The ability to work accurately, prioritise work and manage time effectively

– Excellent communicator both verbally and in writing to colleagues including senior managers and executive teams

– The ability to operate effectively with a high level of autonomy

South West Water is part of the Pennon Group, a very successful and stable business that prides itself on sustainability. We provide reliable, efficient and high–quality drinking water and wastewater services for a population of c. 1.7 million in Cornwall, Devon, and parts of Somerset and Dorset.

We believe that by investing in the future of our region, we are not only improving the quality of life for today's residents and visitors but are also taking responsibility for future generations. Responsibility for the environment is central to this. Our aim is to continually drive up standards, particularly in the areas that matter most to our customers.

Our core values which are essential to our success are:

Trusted – We do the right thing for our customers and stakeholders.

Collaborative – We forge strong relationships working together to make a positive impact.

Responsible – We keep our promises to our customers, communities, and each other.

Progressive – We are always looking for new ways to improve and make life better.

We know that the support and commitment of our staff is key to our success so you will receive the opportunity for ongoing development and training for a long–term career with us. We're one of the largest companies in the South West and are proud to have been awarded Investors in People recognition. In return, we offer an excellent range of benefits which include free car parking at the majority of our sites, company Sharesave Scheme, childcare support, and various health benefits.

Closing date: 15th April 2021

If you are looking for a new challenge, please click apply now to be considered as our Head of Collections – we look forward to receiving your application