Receptionist

About the Role

This is a permanent position working 20 hours per week on a rotating shift pattern that includes two Saturdays per month. You’ll be the welcoming voice and familiar face at the front desk, managing the flow of clients, appointments, and enquiries whilst maintaining the warm, supportive atmosphere that Haven Veterinary Surgeons is known for. Based in Great Yarmouth, this first opinion practice offers the chance to be part of a collaborative team where animal care comes first.

Your day-to-day will be varied and people-focused—no two days are quite the same when you’re working in a busy veterinary practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer phones, manage appointment bookings, and handle client queries across phone, email, and in-person channels
• Register new clients and maintain accurate client records
• Assist with insurance claim forms and administrative tasks
• Dispense medications under supervision and process payments
• Create a warm, welcoming first impression for all clients arriving at the practice—an essential part of the role
• Respond professionally to emotionally sensitive situations with empathy and resilience

Requirements

• Previous receptionist experience is essential
• Veterinary reception experience is a bonus but not required
• Excellent communication skills with strong empathy and emotional intelligence
• Proven ability to handle distressing or emotional client situations with grace
• Demonstrated customer service expertise and experience dealing with the public
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, database systems, and standard practice management software
• Positive attitude, flexible approach, and genuine teamwork skills
• Right to Work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available for this role)

Benefits

• Salary in line with the National Minimum Wage (as of 1 April 2025)
• 5 weeks annual leave per year plus bank holidays (pro rata)
• Staff discount on veterinary bills and products
• Supportive, collaborative team environment
• Employee Assistance Programme with access to over 400 Mental Health First-Aiders
• Receptionist Career Pathway—a structured development route with training courses to build skills, confidence, and advancement opportunities within CVS

About the Practice

Haven Veterinary Surgeons is a first opinion small animal practice located in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. The practice is part of CVS Group plc, one of the UK’s largest integrated veterinary service providers, which encompasses veterinary practices, diagnostic laboratories, and e-commerce operations across the country.

The team is united by a core belief: making pets a priority. Haven Vets provides compassionate, quality care to companion animals and their owners, supported by a collaborative workplace culture where all colleagues are valued and encouraged to be themselves. CVS is committed to building an inclusive, representative workforce that reflects the diverse communities it serves.