Heat Network Billing Strategy Manager

We are working with a forward-thinking client to recruit an experienced Heat Network Billing Strategy Manager. This is a newly created role with a high-profile remit: to lead the authority's response to evolving heat network regulations and ensure that heating charges across the borough are managed fairly, compliantly, and transparently.
The successful candidate will be pivotal in shaping billing strategies for over 3,000 residents connected to communal heating systems, with numbers expected to grow. You will be responsible for designing practical, legally compliant billing solutions in line with the Energy Act and Heat Network regulations - with a particular focus on leasehold and tenancy implications.

This is a strategic role with significant visibility, involving close work with residents, internal teams, legal advisors, and external stakeholders.

You must have a strong expertise in leasehold service charges to be considered for the role.

This is a hybrid role and you will be required to be in the office 3 days a week.

The Role
·Lead the delivery of a borough-wide heat metering and billing project to ensure compliance with the Energy Act and Heat Network regulations.
·Design and implement a compliant billing framework, working with stakeholders to co-create options that reflect resident needs and legal constraints.
·Develop a deep understanding of lease agreements and relevant legislation to determine permissible recharges for leaseholders and tenants.
·Analyse lease and tenancy terms to assess billing impact, seeking legal input where required.
·Collaborate with finance, IT, energy, and home ownership teams to build a seamless and auditable billing solution.
·Benchmark against other councils and housing providers to identify best practices and ensure value for money.
·Develop and present clear recommendations, business cases, and Key Decision Reports to senior leaders and the Council's Leadership Team.
·Support procurement of billing systems and ensure integration with existing CRM and housing platforms.
·Draft and maintain associated policies, procedures, and customer-focused documents such as charters and service standards.
·Lead engagement with tenants and leaseholders through resident working groups and co-design activities.

Key Requirements
·Strong experience in leasehold service charges, with detailed understanding of how lease terms and legislation affect recharges.
·Proven track record of project delivery in social housing, energy, or finance - ideally with communal heating or metering experience.
·Excellent knowledge of housing law, including the Landlord and Tenant Act, Housing Acts, Energy Act, and Heat Network regulations.
·Experience drafting and implementing complex billing solutions across diverse tenure types.
·Demonstrable experience analysing lease and tenancy agreements with legal input.
·Effective stakeholder engagement skills, including working with residents, senior leadership, legal services, and external consultants.
·Strong report writing and business case development skills, able to communicate complex financial and legal concepts clearly.
·Working knowledge of housing management systems and CRM tools; Open Housing experience desirable.
·Relevant qualification in housing, accountancy, energy management, or project management beneficial.

How to Apply
If you are interested in this role and meet the criteria above, please send us your application today. If you have any questions about the vacancy, please click APPLY NOW.

If you do not hear from us within 48 hours of applying, your application has been unsuccessful.

Footnote
If you feel that this job matches your skills but not the rate, location, or seniority, please feel free to send us your CV anyway. We constantly recruit for similar roles across all levels, UK-wide, and would be pleased to speak with you confidentially about your employment status.
Even if you're currently satisfied in your role, we welcome calls from housing professionals looking to make future connections. Our specialist team at Carrington West has over 100 years of combined experience in this market. For more information, call Zubair at Carrington West on 02393 876065.
By applying for this position, you agree for Carrington West to hold and process your personal data in accordance with our Data Protection Policy. Your data will only be shared with third-party clients for roles relevant to your application. You may withdraw consent at any time by contacting us.