Receptionist

About the Role

Hawthorne Lodge is a bustling first-opinion small animal practice nestled in Banbury, perfectly positioned between Oxford and the Cotswolds. This part-time receptionist role offers variety and flexibility, covering a mix of opening and closing shifts with a Saturday rota (9 am–2 pm). There are no out-of-hours requirements, and the practice closes on Sundays and Bank Holidays, making this an excellent opportunity for those seeking work-life balance.

You’ll be the first point of contact for every client and pet that walks through the door, setting the tone for their entire experience. Working alongside a close-knit team of 5 vets, 4 RVNs, and 2 SVNs, you’ll play a vital role in keeping the practice running smoothly while building genuine relationships with regular clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer phones, handle client enquiries, and manage the appointment book
• Welcome clients and their pets with a professional, warm manner
• Check in patients, verify information, update records, and maintain meticulous attention to detail
• Process payments, handle cash, and complete end-of-day banking
• Support the management team with administrative tasks and Pet Health Plan sign-ups
• Dispense medication as required
• Manage account queries, outstanding debt, and petty cash records
• Maintain cleanliness of the reception area and consulting rooms
• Use bespoke IT systems to support practice operations

Requirements

• Excellent communication skills and a professional, welcoming manner
• Experience in a customer-facing role with strong attention to detail
• Ability to juggle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• A collaborative team player with a proactive, learning-focused attitude
• Flexibility to adapt to shift patterns and cover as needed

Benefits

• 6.6 weeks’ annual leave plus your birthday off
• Increasing holiday allowance based on length of service
• Enhanced family-friendly policies (maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental, and surrogacy pay)
• Healthcare Cash Plan and Cycle to Work scheme
• Learning and development through the IVC Evidensia Academy
• Pension scheme
• Discounted veterinary care
• Voluntary benefits including Green Cars salary sacrifice scheme and retail discounts/cashback

About the Practice

Hawthorne Lodge Veterinary Practice is a thriving first-opinion small animal clinic serving the Banbury community. The practice is fully equipped for a comprehensive range of treatments, including laparoscopic spays, endoscopy, orthopaedic surgery, ultrasound, and a dedicated dental suite with digital x-ray facilities. With 5 consulting rooms, 3 operating theatres, and 2 isolation wards, the team provides high-standard care with a genuine focus on continuity and strong client relationships.

As part of IVC Evidensia—the UK and Europe’s leading veterinary care group comprising over 900 practices and referral hospitals—Hawthorne Lodge benefits from group resources and support while maintaining its local identity. IVC Evidensia is committed to creating environments where teams can grow in confidence, capability, and fulfilment at every career stage.