About the Role
Ayres Veterinary Hospital in North Shields is seeking a dynamic and compassionate Veterinary Receptionist to join its front-of-house team. This is a permanent role working 25 hours per week, Monday to Friday with shifts between 07:30–21:00, plus a 1:5 share in the weekend rota (either Saturday or Sunday). You’ll be the first point of contact for every client and their pet, making a real difference in their experience at the practice.
Based at Unit 7 Royal Quays, Coble Dene, North Shields, you may occasionally work across other CVS Vets sites to cover leave and absences. A driving licence and access to your own vehicle are essential for this role.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage incoming calls and schedule appointments efficiently, keeping the clinic running smoothly
- Provide warm, professional greetings and registration for new and returning clients
- Respond to inquiries via phone, email, and face-to-face with professionalism and empathy
- Process insurance forms accurately and manage insurance documentation
- Dispense medications to clients as required
- Handle financial transactions, payments, and manage debts and refunds with care
- Use the in-house practice management system to organise and manage patient records
- Liaise with other veterinary practices to address patient needs and queries
- Provide emotional support and understanding to clients during difficult or distressing times, whilst maintaining professionalism
- Ensure every client feels welcomed and valued at the practice
Requirements
- Previous experience working as a receptionist (experience in a veterinary setting is a bonus)
- Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle—essential for multi-site coverage
- Strong communication skills paired with genuine empathy for clients and their situations
- Proven ability to handle emotional situations with resilience and grace
- Outstanding customer service experience and comfort working with diverse members of the public
- Positive attitude and excellent teamwork abilities
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database systems
- Right to Work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available for this role)
Benefits
- Competitive salary aligned with the National Minimum Wage
- Five weeks’ annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays
- Long Service Award—one extra day of annual leave for each year of service (up to 5 additional days)
- Staff discount on veterinary bills and care
- Discounts on Animed Direct (CVS’s online dispensary) for pet medicines, products, and food
- Employee Assistance Programme offering confidential wellbeing support
- Receptionist Careers Pathway—a clear, structured development programme to build your skills and advance your career within CVS
- Inclusive workplace culture celebrating diversity and supporting team members to perform at their best
About the Practice
Ayres Veterinary Hospital is part of CVS Vets, one of the UK’s leading veterinary groups with over 500 practices and 8,000+ dedicated professionals. The practice is committed to putting pets first in everything it does, and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace where team members can thrive and be their true selves.
As part of CVS, you’ll benefit from access to a large supportive community, structured career development pathways, and resources that help you grow professionally whilst delivering excellent care to the animals in your community.
