Receptionist

About the Role

This is a full-time permanent position based at Birch Heath Veterinary Centre in Tarporley, Cheshire, working 33 hours per week across a fixed shift pattern: Monday and Friday 10am to 6:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday 8am to 4:30pm, plus one Saturday in four from 9am to 1pm. You'll be the hub of a busy small animal and exotic practice, where first-opinion companion care meets specialist exotic referral services.

Birch Heath is recognised as one of the best-equipped surgeries in the county for treating exotic animals. You'll work in a modern, well-resourced environment where supporting both routine consultations and complex exotic cases is the norm. Your role is integral to ensuring every client and patient feels welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all incoming calls with efficiency and warmth, scheduling appointments to keep the practice running smoothly
• Greet and register new clients in person, setting a positive tone for their visit
• Respond to queries via phone, email, and face-to-face with professionalism and empathy
• Process and manage insurance forms accurately and promptly
• Dispense medications as required and handle all financial transactions securely
• Provide compassionate support to clients during distressing situations whilst maintaining professionalism
• Manage the practice's appointment and patient system efficiently
• Liaise with other veterinary practices to address patient needs and queries
• Handle debt and refund queries with sensitivity and care

Requirements

• Previous reception experience is essential; veterinary setting experience is highly valued
• Strong communication skills with genuine empathy for clients and animals
• Outstanding customer service experience and a proven ability to work effectively with the public
• Resilience and composure when managing emotionally charged situations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database systems
• Positive attitude and excellent teamwork abilities
• Right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available for this role)

Benefits

• Salary at National Minimum Wage
• Five weeks' annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays
• Long Service Award providing one additional day of annual leave for each year of service, up to a maximum of five extra days
• Staff discount on all veterinary bills and care
• Exclusive discounts through Animed Direct, CVS's online dispensary, for pet medicines, products and food
• Employee Assistance Programme offering confidential wellbeing support
• Receptionist Careers Pathway with structured development courses to advance your skills and career progression

About the Practice

Birch Heath Veterinary Centre is part of CVS Vets, one of the UK's leading veterinary groups with over 500 practices and 8,000 dedicated professionals nationwide. The practice specialises in small animal and exotic medicine, offering both first-opinion care and specialist exotic referral services. Birch Heath is proud to be recognised as one of the best-equipped surgeries in Cheshire for treating exotic animals, creating a welcoming environment where all pets and their owners feel comfortable and supported.

CVS is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated and every team member is empowered to perform at their best. The company's mission is straightforward: to provide the very best care for animals, and this dedication guides every decision they make.