Laura Bessell

Laura Bessell is a seasoned local taxation and benefits service delivery manager with extensive experience in public sector financial management. Currently serving as the Local Taxation & Benefits Service Delivery Manager at Oxford City Council since October 2016, Laura oversees the operational and strategic direction of local taxation and benefit administration, managing a financial portfolio of £225 million in council tax and business rates alongside £40 million in Housing Benefit awards. Previous roles include Benefit Service Delivery Manager and Benefits Manager at Northampton Borough Council, Benefit Team Leader at the Borough Council of Wellingborough, and various positions at Bedford Borough Council, emphasizing expertise in benefit fraud investigation and administration. Laura's educational background includes attendance at Samuel Whitbread Upper School from 1992 to 1998.