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