Kerry Watson
Chester le Street,Durham
Summary
Seasoned operations leader with a proven track record in managing complex projects and driving operational efficiency. Skilled in strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making, with a focus on delivering significant contributions to organizational growth. Experience in leading high-performing teams to achieve objectives and enhance productivity. Ready to apply expertise in a dynamic environment.
Loyal employee with solid understanding of training and mentoring employees. Dedicated team player, proactive and hands-on in task completion.
Hard-working team player with strong organisational skills. Achieves company goals through exceptional planning and prioritisation.
Customer-oriented officer with strong history of leading high-performance teams to meet or exceed objectives. Dedicated and hardworking with internal drive to deliver excellence. Tactical team builder with strong background in training and team development.
Experienced operations leader with expertise in managing complex projects and enhancing operational efficiency. Demonstrated success in leading high-performing teams and implementing strategic initiatives. Proficient in problem-solving and decision-making, contributing to organizational growth and success.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
2
2
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Senior Officer
Durham County Council
Spennymoor, Durham
04.2017 - 03.2025
- Ensured accuracy and compliance in preparation of government return documents.
- Managed team of overpayment officers, achieving effective housing benefit recovery.
- Collaborated with vulnerable customers to deliver tailored support solutions.
- Facilitated strategic planning sessions for organisational development initiatives.
- Promoted ethical work culture across operations, reinforcing organisational values.
- Implemented operational strategies that enhanced team efficiency and productivity.
- Achieved seamless workflow through effective delegation techniques across departments.
- Resolved customer complaints to ensure optimal outcomes and satisfaction.
Team Leader
Durham County Council
Spennymoor, Durham
04.2013 - 03.2017
- Administered housing benefit and council tax reduction by leading a team of Assessment Officers.
- Managed performance metrics to ensure high service standards.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring efficiency in service delivery.
- Facilitated monthly management meetings to discuss strategic objectives.
- Conducted one-on-one meetings with staff to address development needs and concerns.
- Resolved complex issues within the service to maintain customer satisfaction.
- Identified opportunities for service improvement through analysis and feedback.
Senior Officer
Durham County Council
Spennymoor, Durham
03.2011 - 03.2013
- Championed change management initiatives that enhanced process efficiency significantly.
- Managed quality control for assessments and awards to ensure high standards.
- Implemented robust quality assurance practices to guarantee consistent service delivery.
- Cultivated strong relationships with key stakeholders to foster collaboration.
Benefit Assessor
Durham County Council
Chester-le-Street, Durham
02.2005 - 02.2011
- Assessed housing benefit and council tax reduction applications efficiently.
- Managed customer interactions through telephone and in-person consultations.
- Updated data systems to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Kept accurate records of all assessments conducted, aiding transparency and accountability in recruitment processes.
- Ensured compliance with data protection laws during all stages of assessment procedures thus safeguarding company's reputation against potential legal issues related to privacy infringement.
- Collaborated closely with other assessors for a consistent approach towards evaluation.
- Maintained accurate records of assessment outcomes, contributing to data-driven decision-making.
Revenues Officer
Durham County Council
Chester-le-Street, Durham
08.2001 - 01.2005
- Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams for optimal resource utilisation.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on current tax laws to provide accurate information.
- Coordinated with multiple departments for streamlined revenue operations.
- Assisted in the preparation of annual revenue reports, ensuring clarity and precision.
- Provided comprehensive support during audits to ensure smooth proceedings.
- Fostered positive relationships with taxpayers through proactive communication and service.
- Resolved complex account discrepancies through careful analysis and follow-up investigations.
- Managed complex customer queries to resolve revenue disputes successfully.
- Oversaw the implementation of new software systems to enhance operational efficiency.
- Achieved accuracy with diligent data entry and record keeping.
- Tracked outstanding payments and pursued collections diligently, improving recovery rates.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Applied Management
University of Sunderland
Sunderland 09.2008 - 07.2009
Foundation Degree in Arts - Leadership and Management
University of Sunderland
Sunderland 09.2007 - 07.2008
Skills
- Public speaking and presentation
- Knowledge of gdpr standards
- Organisational alignment
- Human resources strategies
- Multitasking mastery
- Performance metrics analysis
- Verbal communication
- Regulatory compliance
- Engaging leadership style
- Performance monitoring
- Public sector partnerships
- Financial analysis
- Budgeting and finance
- Budget oversight
- Attention to Detail
- Conflict Resolution
Timeline
Senior Officer
Durham County Council
04.2017 - 03.2025
Team Leader
Durham County Council
04.2013 - 03.2017
Senior Officer
Durham County Council
03.2011 - 03.2013
Bachelor of Arts - Applied Management
University of Sunderland
09.2008 - 07.2009
Foundation Degree in Arts - Leadership and Management
University of Sunderland
09.2007 - 07.2008
Benefit Assessor
Durham County Council
02.2005 - 02.2011
Revenues Officer
Durham County Council
08.2001 - 01.2005
Similar Profiles
Rebekah HolmanRebekah Holman
Work Experience at Durham County CouncilWork Experience at Durham County Council
Johanna AstonJohanna Aston
Senior Officer (Assessment & Awards) at Durham County CouncilSenior Officer (Assessment & Awards) at Durham County Council
Letwin MhlabaLetwin Mhlaba
Litigation Legal Assistant at Durham County CouncilLitigation Legal Assistant at Durham County Council
Olugbenga AjayiOlugbenga Ajayi
GP at SSP Health -Scarborough/EastfieldGP at SSP Health -Scarborough/Eastfield
Sam WatsonSam Watson
Kitchen staff member at Beamish Park Golf ClubKitchen staff member at Beamish Park Golf Club