James Pickering

James Pickering is an experienced professional in local government, currently serving as the Homelessness Prevention Manager and Countywide Strategic Lead for Single Homeless and Rough Sleeping at Oxford City Council since January 2013. James has successfully managed a multi-award-winning team focused on National Pilots addressing the impacts of the Government's Welfare Reform Agenda, resulting in significant, life-changing outcomes for customers and influencing high-level policy decisions. Prior to this role, James held the position of Revenues and Benefits Operations Manager at West Oxfordshire District Council from November 2009 to January 2013, where notable achievements included implementing efficiency improvements that saved £295,000, delivering over £26 million in housing and council tax benefits, and achieving a 99% council tax collection rate. James holds a Master's degree in Leadership from Henley Business School, completed in 2019.