PERSON SPECIFICATION /

Tamworth Borough Council

Job Title: Housing Solutions ManagerDate Produced:

01 November 2014
Grade: 8Section: Strategic Housing ServicesVersion No: 2
Compiled by: Steve PointonSignature of Author:

ATTRIBUTES

/ JOB REQUIREMENTS
1. Knowledge
What special knowledge is required to perform this job properly? E.g. foreign language abilities, computer skills accounting and financial techniques, knowledge of employment legislation, familiarity with the locality etc.
  • Knowledge of Homelessness Legislation (including the Homelessness Reduction Act) and good practice including underlying concepts and principles
  • Knowledge of Housing Allocations Systems
  • Knowledge of best practice and policy / strategic frameworks at national and regional level
  • An understanding of the wider health improvement agenda and the relationship of good housing to wellbeing
  • Knowledge of successful performance management approaches
  • Knowledge of the principles of good customer service
  • An excellent understanding of the strategic and operational requirements needed to provide a range of housing options within the private sector
  • Knowledge of the strategic and operational role of a Council in delivering and commissioning affordable housing
  • Knowledge of business/service planning, performance and financial management methods
  • Knowledge of procurement, financial and legal regulations regarding procurement
  • An awareness of modern ICT systems and the potential for their application within service.
  • Understanding of equality and diversity issues.

2. Practical Skills
To what extent is the post holder required to be practically orientated, mechanically minded, manually dexterous etc.?
  • Able to make site visits and to carry out work away from the office
  • Keyboard/IT skills
  • Well developed critical listening skills

3. Intellectual Skills
What abilities are necessary in respect of interpreting complex information, understanding detailed reports, decision making etc.?
  • Ability to lead change and drive service improvements
  • The ability to interpret information and apply relevant legislation
  • Ability to formulate evidence based strategies and commissioning plans
  • Ability to deal with complex enquiries and apply a problem solving approach
  • Ability to write management reports and produce performance data
  • Ability to develop and implement new solutions to housing problems
  • The ability to assemble and interpret complex data using high level literacy and numeracy skills
  • Ability to understand the complexities of Local Government finance, general accounting concepts and budget management procedures.
  • The ability to work under limited direction using initiative, innovation, and independent action. Equally to be able to work effectively within an organizational setting

4. Educational Background
Any formal qualifications essential to enable the post holder to carry out the duties of the appointment to an acceptable standard, or is relevant experience as beneficial? Describe specific qualification, subject matter and level of attainment where appropriate, considering whether overseas/other equivalent courses are acceptable.
  • Relevant degree or equivalent professional / housing qualification
  • Have membership of, or be working towards membership of, the Chartered Institute of Housing
  • A post graduate or professional qualification would be an advantage

5. Training
What does the candidate require in the way of specialist training in order to be successful in this post? e.g. apprenticeship in a particular trade, supervisory management training, computer literacy, word processing, practical instruction in the use of equipment, interviewing skills etc. Can this compensate for a lack of formal qualifications?
Relevant training will be an advantage
Clear evidence of continuing professional development
6. General Abilities
What general skills and abilities are required in this post? E.g. communication & interpersonal skills, self-reliance, self-motivation, co-operation, delegation, leadership, accuracy & attention to detail, tolerance of monotony etc.
  • Ability to work under pressure, prioritise workload and meet deadlines
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a management team
  • Ability to lead, motivate and manage individuals and teams
  • Ability to develop long term plans for the service
  • Effective communication (both written and oral)
  • Ability to develop new strategies and policies in line with business plan and service objectives
  • Self reliant and ability to manage own workload
  • Flexible approach to change
  • Logical thinking and problem solving
  • Commitment to high standards of customer service and equality
  • Capable of working with minimum supervision but able to accept direction from line manager when necessary
  • Ability to interact and communicate with people at all levels including negotiating skills
  • Partnership management skills

7. Experience
Specify the type and length of job related experience needed by the candidate, including reference to the most appropriate working environment. Can any other experience e.g. through social, domestic or leisure activities supplement or replace this?
  • Minimum of five years experience of working in housing or a relevant field
  • Experience of implementing new legislation
  • Experience of policy / strategy development work in a housing or related field
  • Experience of leading a team and line managing staff
  • Experience of working with computerized housing management or similar systems
  • A proven track record of initiating and delivering improvements in services
  • Experience of prevention approaches to homelessness
  • Experience of working in a customer focused environment
  • Experience of working in a multi-agency partnership environment

8. Personal Circumstances
What personal circumstances are required in order to carry out the job duties properly? e.g. car ownership, the willingness to live in where necessary, or to travel, work away from home, work week-ends or shifts etc.
  • Willingness to undertake training and develop new skills
  • In possession of a full valid driving licence and have a vehicle available for use at work (Essential car user allowance will apply for this post).
  • Available to take part in the out of hours standby rota system and other out of hours working when necessary