Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

This 6-month fixed-term receptionist role is based at Highcroft Veterinary Centre in Keynsham, working 32 hours per week across a structured shift pattern. You’ll be the welcoming face of a busy small animal practice, managing everything from appointment scheduling to client communications and payments. With a 1:4 Saturday rota shared across the Keynsham and Brislington sites, your weekdays offer good balance—you’re off Wednesdays and Sundays completely.

You’ll join CVS Vets, one of the UK’s largest veterinary groups, where you’ll be part of a supportive community of over 8,000 professionals committed to putting pets first. The practice emphasises genuine care for clients during difficult times, creating an environment where your emotional intelligence and professionalism matter just as much as your admin skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer incoming calls, schedule appointments, and manage the appointment system efficiently
• Welcome new clients, complete registration, and ensure every client feels valued from their first interaction
• Process insurance forms and manage client financial transactions accurately
• Dispense medications as required and liaise with vets on patient needs
• Provide empathetic support to clients during emotionally challenging consultations
• Handle telephone communications regarding debts, refunds, and client belongings with professionalism
• Respond to enquiries via phone, email, and in-person with clear communication
• Maintain organised patient records using the practice’s in-house system

Requirements

• Previous reception experience is essential; veterinary background is advantageous but not required
• Strong communication skills with genuine empathy and emotional resilience
• Excellent customer service experience and comfort working with the public
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and database systems
• Positive attitude, reliability, and strong teamwork ability
• Right to Work in the UK (visa sponsorship cannot be offered for this role)

Benefits

• Competitive salary at National Minimum Wage rates
• 5 weeks annual leave plus Bank Holidays (pro rata for 6-month contract)
• Staff discounts on veterinary services and products
• Employee Assistance Programme with access to over 400 Mental Health First-Aiders
• Structured Receptionist Careers Pathway with dedicated training and development courses
• Collaborative, inclusive team environment

About the Practice

Highcroft Veterinary Centre is a small animal practice in Keynsham that’s part of CVS Vets, one of the UK’s leading veterinary groups operating over 500 practices nationwide. The Keynsham team shares Saturday rotas with the nearby Brislington site, creating a supportive network approach to cover and development.

CVS is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated and every team member can perform at their best. The group’s mission centres on providing exceptional animal care, and this philosophy extends to how they support their staff—offering clear career pathways, mental health support, and a genuine collaborative culture.