Temporary Accommodation Acquisitions Officer

About The Role We are looking for a proactive and motivated temporary Accommodation Acquisitions Officer to join our Housing Options team. This is an exciting opportunity to help secure high-quality accommodation for households experiencing homelessness, ensuring we meet our statutory duties while delivering positive outcomes for residents. As part of a busy and committed team, you will be responsible for identifying, negotiating and procuring suitable temporary accommodation from private landlords, letting agents and accommodation providers. Your work will play a vital role in reducing the use of costly emergency accommodation and increasing the availability of suitable homes for vulnerable households. The temporary Accommodation Acquisitions Officer will:

• identify and secure suitable temporary accommodation within and outside the borough
• build and maintain effective relationships with private landlords, managing agents and accommodation providers
• negotiate rental agreements and terms to achieve value for money and compliance with council requirements
• conduct property inspections to ensure accommodation meets required standards and legislative requirements
• work closely with Housing Options Officers and other colleagues to match accommodation to households' needs
• monitor accommodation availability and maintain accurate records and performance data
• assist in developing initiatives to increase the supply of temporary accommodation
• ensure all acquired properties comply with health and safety, licensing and housing standards We are looking for someone who has:
• experience of working in housing, property management, lettings, acquisitions or a related field
• strong negotiation and relationship management skills
• knowledge of the private rented sector and housing legislation
• excellent communication and customer service skills
• the ability to manage a varied workload and meet competing deadlines
• good IT skills and experience maintaining accurate records It would also be desirable to have:
• experience of working within homelessness services or local government
• knowledge of temporary accommodation management, procurement or landlord engagement
• understanding of landlord incentives, leasing arrangements and housing benefit subsidy Crawley is a great place to work, with a thriving business district and excellent transport connections including nearby Gatwick Airport. We are based in our modern Town Hall which opened in 2023 and is located a short walk from the town centre and railway station. Additional information This post is a two-year fixed term contract. A Baseline Personnel Security Standard check is required as part of this role and that will also entail the successful applicant undertaking a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check. Employee benefits We offer a generous employee benefits package, with a range of discounts, benefits and wellbeing incentives to suit everyone. At Crawley Borough Council, you will have access to a structured programme of learning from day one, designed to help you succeed in your role and grow your career. Local government reorganisation Local government reorganisation (LGR) is planned across Sussex, with new unitary authorities expected by 2028. While this represents a significant change for councils, most roles will continue to focus on delivering vital services to our residents and business communities. As the future structure evolves, our name may change, but our commitment to providing excellent services and supporting our employees will not. Joining us now means being part of a dedicated team during an important and evolving time for local government. Our way of working Our shared values and behaviours reflect the special nature of our council. We encourage all colleagues to put them into practice, whatever job they do. Take a look to see if we are the perfect match. Safer recruitment How to apply Click the Apply button to complete your application online. Please ensure that the reference details you supply are for your current or most recent employer and that any gaps in employment are covered on your application form. Please note that CVs will not be accepted without a fully completed application form. For an informal conversation or further information regarding the role, email helen.davies@crawley.gov.uk, Housing Options Service Manager. We recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible, as we may close this advert before the stated closing date if enough applications are received.