Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

Harbour Veterinary Centre is looking for a Veterinary Receptionist to join the team on a permanent 27 hour per week contract. The rota runs Monday to Friday, with varied shifts between 08:30 and 18:30.

This is a front-of-house role where you'll be helping clients from the first phone call through to appointment booking, payments and day-to-day queries. The practice describes a warm, pet-focused approach, with a strong emphasis on client care and empathy.

The role also comes with CVS's Receptionist Careers Pathway, giving you a structured way to build skills and grow within the group.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer incoming calls and arrange appointments
• Respond to questions by phone, email and in person
• Welcome and register new clients
• Process insurance forms
• Dispense medications as required
• Take payments accurately
• Support clients who may be distressed, while staying professional and compassionate
• Use the practice system to organise patients
• Liaise with other veterinary practices about patient needs and queries
• Handle calls about debts, belongings and refunds
• Help make sure every client feels welcomed and valued

Requirements

• Previous experience as a receptionist or in a busy, client-focused role
• Veterinary reception experience is beneficial, but not essential
• Resilience and the ability to deal with emotional situations kindly and professionally
• Strong communication skills and empathy
• Good customer service skills and confidence dealing with the public
• A positive attitude and strong teamwork
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and database systems

Benefits

• Salary paid at the National Minimum Wage
• 27 hours per week on a permanent contract
• Five weeks' annual leave pro rata, plus bank holidays
• Staff discount on veterinary bills and care
• Staff discount on Animed Direct, CVS's online dispensary
• Employee Assistance Programme for confidential wellbeing support
• Receptionist Careers Pathway with courses to support development

About the Practice

The vacancy is for Harbour Veterinary Centre in Waterlooville, Hampshire. It is a CVS Vets-owned practice working within the group's First Opinion department.

CVS Vets says it operates a network of more than 500 practices with over 8,000 professionals, and describes its approach as caring, supportive and focused on learning and progression.