Business Rates Specialist

Overview:

We are working with a Local Authority seeking a highly analytical and detail-driven Business Rates Specialist with strong expertise in Valuation Office Agency (VOA) schedules and technical rating matters.

This is a purely desk-based, non-phone role, focused on the detailed analysis of VOA valuation schedules, handling technical queries, and managing written complaints and challenges in relation to non-domestic rates.

The successful candidate will have a strong grounding in rating legislation, valuation methodologies, and VOA processes, with the ability to review and challenge assessments to ensure accuracy and fairness for the authority.

This is a specialist position with no requirement to manage staff, although prior experience mentoring or supporting colleagues would be considered advantageous.

Key Responsibilities:

* Analyse and interpret VOA valuation schedules and local rating lists

* Identify errors, discrepancies, or improvement opportunities within rateable values

* Prepare and manage submissions through the Check, Challenge, Appeal (CCA) process

* Handle technical business rates queries through written correspondence

* Manage and respond to formal complaints relating to rating assessments and liabilities

* Review VOA valuation approaches (rental comparison, contractor’s basis, receipts & expenditure)

* Maintain accurate records of appeals, casework, and outcomes

* Liaise with the Valuation Office Agency and internal stakeholders (primarily in writing)

* Support the authority in ensuring fair and accurate rating assessments across its jurisdiction

* Keep up to date with legislation, case law, and VOA guidance affecting business rates

Key Requirements:

Essential:

* Proven experience within Business Rates / NDR / Property Tax, ideally within a local authority or public sector environment

* Strong hands-on experience analysing VOA valuation schedules

* In-depth understanding of rateable value calculations and valuation methodologies

* Experience handling Check, Challenge, Appeal (CCA) cases

* Strong analytical skills with high attention to detail

* Ability to manage complex casework independently

* Excellent written communication skills (no phone-based responsibilities)

Desirable:

* Experience working within a Local Authority business rates team

* Knowledge of billing, collection, and enforcement processes within NDR

* Experience handling rating complaints and dispute resolution

* Exposure to complex or high-volume rating portfolios

* Experience mentoring or supporting junior staff (not essential)

Working Style:

* Fully remote working

* No telephone responsibilities – all work is conducted via written communication

* Independent, output-driven role focused on technical accuracy and case resolution

* Suited to candidates who prefer deep, analytical work over customer-facing duties
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed