Saadia Saddique

Supported and collaborated with my husband in the successful operation and management of his retail business.

Expanded business revenue by marketing and promoting the products on social media platforms, organising more pick-up locations and offering a delivery service. Increased turnover by 150%.

Actively participated in international furniture expos to explore new product offerings and establish valuable connections with suppliers and industry professionals. This proactive approach allowed for the expansion of product range and the development of strategic partnerships to enhance business prospects.

Residential Development

During this period, I managed two development projects. The first involved renovating a property I owned that had been rented for 15 years. I completely revamped it, including a loft conversion and relocating the staircase. This project not only highlighted my skills in property renovation and project management but also resulted in doubling the value of the property.

Commercial Development

In addition to the residential property renovation, I am also involved in a commercial development project owned by my husband. The property, which currently has ample vacant space, is undergoing transformation into a single commercial shop on the ground floor and the creation of five flats on the upper two floors. Currently, we are awaiting planning permission from the council to proceed with this project, which my husband will oversee.

Assisted homeless individuals in transitioning from homelessness to independent living by actively resolving their bills, liaising with landlords on their behalf, and facilitating access to essential services like healthcare and welfare benefits entitlement.

Demonstrated flexibility and commitment by working outside of regular hours to meet the demands of the organisation, including addressing anti-social behaviour, investigating false fire alarms, and providing general support via telephone.

Prepared comprehensive closure reports for the council, outlining the actions taken, timelines, outcomes, and recommendations as needed. Achieved a remarkable closure rate of 95% within the designated 6-month time-frame.

Successfully handled and prepared an average of 30 court cases per week, showcasing strong organisational and time management skills.

Conducted thorough analysis of data, diligently investigated claims and fraudulent activities, and made well-informed, complex decisions while representing the association in court.

Provided comprehensive training and mentoring to colleagues, ensuring adherence to best practices in arrears collection and other legal matters, resulting in a decrease in adjourned cases due to non-compliance.

Fostered and maintained strong professional relationships with county courts, solicitors, housing benefit department, money advice services, and income team, delivering exceptional customer service.

Achieved a remarkable reduction in adjourned cases, decreasing the number from 1500 to 500 within the first year.

Appointed as the lead legal officer for dismissing warrant applications, leading to tenants fully clearing rent arrears and court costs, which otherwise could have taken the organisation up to 20 years to recover.

Successfully managed a caseload of approximately 900 properties, overseeing the entire process from the reminder stage through to eviction process. Engaged in effective communication with tenants through phone calls, letters, office interviews, and home visits.

Conducted thorough reviews of customers income and expenditure, providing appropriate signposting for debt and welfare advice. Negotiated payment arrangements, closely tracked and monitored agreements, and made informed decisions on the most suitable course of action, taking into account individual circumstances.

Recognised for outstanding performance, receiving the prestigious best Income Officer award two years in a row. This accolade was granted in recognition of achieving the highest reduction in arrears among a group of 30 dedicated income officers.