Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

This is a maternity cover position lasting 9 months, perfect for someone seeking flexible, part-time hours. You'll work 18.5 hours per week across a defined shift pattern: Tuesday afternoons and evenings (13:30-19:30), Friday full days (08:00-18:00), and a 1-in-4 Saturday and Sunday rota split. Based at Highcroft Vets in Whitchurch, you'll be the welcoming face of a busy small animal practice, managing the flow of clients and their pets with professionalism and genuine care.

Highcroft Vets is part of CVS, a network of over 500 practices with more than 8,000 professionals across the UK. You'll be joining a supportive community dedicated to putting animal welfare at the heart of everything they do.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage incoming phone calls and efficiently schedule appointments for clients
• Greet and register new clients with warmth, ensuring they feel welcomed
• Respond professionally to queries via phone, email, and face-to-face interactions
• Process and manage pet insurance forms accurately
• Dispense medications as required by the veterinary team
• Process financial transactions and payments with accuracy
• Provide empathetic support to clients during emotionally challenging consultations
• Organise and manage patient records using the practice's in-house system
• Liaise with other veterinary practices to address patient care and queries
• Handle debt and refund management including related phone calls
• Ensure every client feels valued and supported throughout their visit

Requirements

• Previous reception experience is essential; veterinary reception experience is highly valued
• Demonstrated resilience and ability to handle emotionally sensitive situations professionally
• Strong communication skills with genuine empathy for clients and pets
• Excellent customer service experience and confidence 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 not available for this role)

Benefits

• Salary aligned with the National Minimum Wage
• Five weeks annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays
• Staff discount on veterinary bills and care
• Staff discount on Animed Direct online dispensary (pet medicines, products, and food)
• Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential wellbeing support
• Receptionist Careers Pathway offering structured skills development and progression routes
• Access to training courses to enhance client service delivery and career advancement

About the Practice

Highcroft Vets Whitchurch is part of CVS Group Plc, one of the UK's leading veterinary healthcare providers. With a network spanning over 500 practices and employing more than 8,000 professionals, CVS is committed to providing the best possible care for animals. The practice prioritises putting pets first and creating a supportive workplace where team members can thrive.

CVS is dedicated to building an inclusive, diverse workplace where all team members can be their authentic selves and perform at their best. The organisation reflects the diverse communities it serves and empowers every staff member to contribute meaningfully to animal welfare.