Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

This is a permanent, full-time receptionist position based across two sites—Cromlyn House Veterinary Hospital and Northern Ireland Veterinary Specialists (NiVS)—both located in Hillsborough, County Down. You’ll work Monday to Friday between 08:00 and 19:30, with a 1:5 share of Saturday rota duties, meaning you’ll have genuine breathing room between shifts.

The role sits at the heart of client experience. You’ll handle everything from answering phones and scheduling appointments to welcoming new clients, processing insurance forms, and providing compassionate support during difficult moments. It’s a position that demands resilience, excellent communication, and genuine empathy—but rewards you with a collaborative team environment and the knowledge that you’re making a real difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all incoming calls and efficiently schedule appointments across both sites
• Greet clients warmly, register new patients, and ensure a welcoming first impression
• Respond professionally to queries via phone, email, and in-person
• Process insurance forms and handle financial transactions accurately
• Dispense medications as required
• Organise patient records using the in-house system
• Liaise with other veterinary practices to address client and patient needs
• Manage debt recovery and refund communications professionally
• Provide emotional support and reassurance to clients during stressful situations
• Maintain excellent customer service standards at all times

Requirements

• Proven reception experience (mandatory)
• Experience in a veterinary practice is highly valued
• Strong communication skills and genuine empathy
• Resilience and ability to handle emotionally challenging situations professionally
• Outstanding customer service experience
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and database systems
• Positive attitude and excellent teamwork abilities
• Right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship not available for this role)

Benefits

• Competitive salary aligned with the National Minimum Wage (effective 1 April 2025)
• 5 weeks’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata)
• Staff discounts on veterinary services and products
• Access to Employee Assistance Programme
• Support from over 400 Mental Health First-Aiders across the group
• Structured Receptionist Careers Pathway with accredited training courses
• Supportive, collaborative team environment

About the Practice

Cromlyn House Veterinary Hospital and Northern Ireland Veterinary Specialists (NiVS) operate as two integrated sites in Hillsborough, County Down. Both are part of CVS Vets, one of the UK’s leading veterinary groups with over 500 practices and 8,000+ professionals across the country. The practice specialises in referral work, welcoming complex cases and providing specialist care.

CVS Vets is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated and every team member can be their true self. The group offers structured career development pathways, comprehensive mental health support, and a culture focused on putting pets first. Working here means joining a supportive community of like-minded professionals dedicated to animal welfare.