About the Role
You'll be the welcoming face of Alnorthumbria Veterinary Centre, a small animal practice located at Dobbies Garden Centre in Ponteland. This permanent full-time role offers 35 hours per week across a structured two-week rota pattern, with Saturday mornings included once every two weeks. You'll work within a practice that genuinely puts pets first and values every team member.
As part of CVS Vets, one of the UK's leading veterinary groups with over 500 practices and 8,000+ professionals, you'll have access to structured career development pathways, ongoing support, and a clear route to advance your skills in client service.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage incoming calls and schedule appointments efficiently
- Respond to client queries via phone, email, and in-person with professionalism and warmth
- Greet and register new clients, ensuring they feel welcomed and valued
- Process and manage insurance forms accurately
- Dispense medications as required
- Process payments and handle financial transactions with precision
- Provide empathetic support to clients during stressful situations whilst maintaining professionalism
- Use the in-house practice management system to organise patient information efficiently
- Liaise with other veterinary practices to address patient needs and queries
- Handle debt, refund, and belongings enquiries through phone and correspondence
Requirements
- Previous reception experience is essential; veterinary reception experience is a bonus
- Resilience and ability to handle emotional situations with grace and professionalism
- Strong communication skills with genuine empathy for clients and their concerns
- Outstanding customer service experience working with the public
- Positive attitude and strong teamwork abilities
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database systems
- Right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available for this role)
Benefits
- Salary aligned with the National Minimum Wage
- Five weeks' annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays
- Staff discount scheme on veterinary bills and care
- Discount on Animed Direct online dispensary for pet medicines, products, and food
- Employee Assistance Programme for confidential wellbeing support
- Structured Receptionist Careers Pathway with courses to develop skills and advance your career
- Access to CVS Vets' inclusive workplace culture and professional development opportunities
About the Practice
Alnorthumbria Veterinary Centre is a small animal practice based at Dobbies Garden Centre in Ponteland, part of CVS Vets. The practice is dedicated to providing excellent care for pets and creating a welcoming environment for clients. As part of CVS Vets' network, the practice benefits from the resources, training, and support of one of the UK's largest veterinary groups whilst maintaining its own community focus.
CVS Vets is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated and every team member can perform at their best. The group's mission is straightforward: put pets first in everything it does.
