Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

This is a maternity cover position at Highcroft Vets in Whitchurch, part of CVS Vets' network of over 500 practices across the UK. You'll work 18.5 hours per week across a split pattern: Tuesday 13:30–19:30, Friday 08:00–18:00, plus 1-in-4 Saturday and Sunday shifts. It's a fixed 9-month contract, making it ideal if you're looking for structured, temporary hours with a committed team.

As the face of the practice, you'll manage the flow of communication, greet clients warmly, and handle the day-to-day operations that keep a busy small animal practice running smoothly. You'll work alongside a supportive team where client care and animal welfare are genuinely valued, not just slogans.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage incoming calls and schedule appointments efficiently
• Greet new clients and register them with professionalism and warmth
• Respond to client queries via phone, email, and in-person interactions
• Process and manage insurance forms accurately
• Dispense medications as required
• Process payments and handle financial transactions
• Provide empathy and emotional support to clients during stressful times
• Organise patient records using the in-house practice management system
• Liaise with other veterinary practices to address patient needs
• Manage debt recovery and refund communications professionally
• Ensure every client feels welcomed and valued at Highcroft

Requirements

• Previous reception experience (essential); veterinary practice experience is a bonus
• Strong communication skills and genuine empathy
• Resilience and ability to handle emotionally demanding situations with grace
• Outstanding customer service experience
• Positive attitude and proven 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 pet medicines, products, and food)
• Employee Assistance Programme for confidential wellbeing support
• Receptionist Careers Pathway with structured training and development courses
• Inclusive workplace culture celebrating diversity

About the Practice

Highcroft Vets is part of CVS Vets, one of the UK's leading veterinary groups with over 500 practices and more than 8,000 devoted professionals. The practice is committed to providing the best possible care for animals and building a supportive, inclusive workplace where team members can thrive. CVS Vets' mission is simple: put pets first, and this guides everything the team does.