Equine Receptionist

About the Role

This is a full-time receptionist position at a long-established and highly respected equine veterinary practice in scenic Essex, within easy reach of London. You’ll be at the heart of client communications and practice operations, working Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, in a welcoming and supportive team environment that caters to everyone from leisure horse owners to international competition yards.

Your role is varied and people-focused: you’ll be the first point of contact for clients calling in, managing their appointments, processing payments, and ensuring the practice runs smoothly behind the scenes. You’ll handle everything from preparing cost estimates to issuing import certificates and coordinating referrals—a genuinely diverse remit that means no two days are the same.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer and manage incoming telephone enquiries with empathy and professionalism
• Schedule and coordinate client appointments across the veterinary team
• Maintain and oversee the appointment diary
• Process client payments and handle billing
• Manage patient admissions and onboarding procedures
• Prepare and provide cost estimates for veterinary services
• Manage client correspondence and communications
• Coordinate and book client referrals
• Order and dispense medications for client collection
• Organise logistical support for veterinary equipment and appointments
• Prepare and issue import certificates
• Update and maintain the practice management system (Eclipse)
• Manage outgoing mail and place stationery orders

Requirements

• Excellent customer service skills with genuine empathy for clients and animals
• Demonstrated experience in a customer-facing role (in person or by telephone)
• Strong IT skills and ability to use practice management systems
• Meticulous attention to detail and precision with data recording
• Team player mentality with reliable, professional communication
• Knowledge of the veterinary industry is advantageous but not essential

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to £28,000 depending on experience
• 6.6 weeks annual leave plus additional leave on your birthday
• Enhanced family-friendly policies (maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental and surrogacy pay)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee wellbeing initiatives and non-accidental injury support
• Learning and development opportunities via the IVC Evidensia Academy
• Pawsome Benefits loyalty programme (discounts and cashback with hundreds of retailers)
• Pension scheme
• Discounted staff pet care

About the Practice

Blaircourt Equine Veterinary Clinic is a well-established and highly regarded equine practice situated in the picturesque Essex countryside, close to London. The team comprises eight experienced equine veterinarians, providing a welcoming and supportive working environment. The practice serves a diverse client base, from leisure horse owners to international competition yards, and is part of the IVC Evidensia group.