Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

This fixed term Veterinary Receptionist position is a 12 month maternity cover role, based at Briar Dawn Veterinary Centre in Oldham. The post is for 20 hours per week, working Monday to Friday from 15:00 to 19:00, plus a 1:3 share of the Saturday rota from 09:00 to 15:00.

You will be the first point of contact for clients, helping the practice deliver a welcoming, organised and compassionate front-of-house service. The role brings together client care, administration and day-to-day coordination in a first opinion practice where pets are prioritised every day.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer incoming calls and book appointments efficiently.
• Respond to queries by phone, email and in person with professionalism.
• Welcome and register new clients.
• Process insurance forms and handle payments.
• Dispense medication when required.
• Organise patients using the in-house system.
• Liaise with veterinary practices about patient needs and queries.
• Handle calls about debts, belongings and refunds.
• Support clients with empathy, particularly during difficult moments.

Requirements

• Previous experience as a receptionist or in another demanding, client-focused role.
• Veterinary reception experience is a bonus, not a requirement.
• Strong communication skills and genuine empathy.
• Resilience when dealing with emotional situations.
• Excellent customer service skills and experience working with the public.
• A positive approach and strong teamwork.
• Confidence using Microsoft Office and database systems.
• Right to work in the UK.

Benefits

• Salary aligned to the National Minimum Wage.
• 12 month fixed term contract covering maternity leave.
• 20 hours per week.
• Five weeks' annual leave, pro rata, plus bank holidays.
• Staff discount on veterinary bills and care.
• Discounts on Animed Direct, including pet medicines, products and food.
• Employee Assistance Programme for confidential wellbeing support.
• Receptionist Careers Pathway with courses to support skills development and progression within CVS.

About the Practice

Briar Dawn Veterinary Centre is a CVS Vets owned first opinion practice in Shaw, Oldham. The advert links to the practice page on the CVS website and describes a culture focused on caring, supporting, learning and progressing.

CVS Vets says it operates more than 500 practices and has over 8,000 professionals across the group. The company also states that it is committed to an inclusive workplace and reflects the diverse communities it serves.