Receptionist

About the Role

You’ll be the welcoming face (and voice) at PDSA Manchester, greeting pets and their owners at their moment of need. This is a part-time temporary role working 20 hours per week across a varied shift pattern that includes weekdays, weekends, and bank holidays. Your shifts will fall within the operating hours of 8:30am–6:00pm Monday to Friday, and 8:00am–6:30pm on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Working in a busy, fast-paced pet hospital environment, you’ll stay calm under pressure, juggle multiple tasks, and create a welcoming, efficient experience for every client who walks through the door. The role offers flexibility and the chance to be part of a supportive, collaborative team united by a mission to help pets when their families need it most.

Key Responsibilities

• Process clients attending the hospital and handle telephone enquiries with sympathy and professionalism
• Maintain accurate PDSA paperwork and records using computerised systems
• Encourage appropriate financial contributions from clients in a sensitive manner
• Prioritise your workload effectively in a busy reception environment
• Provide short-notice absence cover and support with overtime as needed
• Deliver excellent customer service that leaves clients feeling listened to and supported

Requirements

• Good communication skills and an excellent telephone manner
• Ability to stay organised, reliable and calm under pressure
• Flexibility in responding to changing demands and shift patterns
• Previous office or reception experience, including word processing and computerised record systems (desirable but not essential)
• Caring, professional approach with a genuine passion for helping pets and their owners
• Willingness to learn and work as part of a supportive team

Benefits

• Flexible working options to support your work–life balance
• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays annually
• Three paid special days off: Volunteering Day, Celebration Day and Wellbeing Day
• Generous pension options, with PDSA contributions starting at 5% and rising to 10%
• Life assurance providing four times your annual salary
• AXA Health Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 wellbeing support
• 10% discount on PDSA Pet Insurance plus access to staff veterinary services
• Retail, holiday and lifestyle discounts through the Fetch benefits platform
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave

About the Practice

PDSA is a national UK charity providing vital veterinary care for the pets of people in financial hardship. For over a century, PDSA has been committed to keeping pets and their owners together when times are tough. The organisation has experienced significant growth and now operates a vast network of services across the country, employing hundreds of dedicated staff united by a shared mission.

PDSA is committed to building a diverse, inclusive workplace where all employees can make their best contribution. The team culture is collaborative and supportive, and the organisation actively encourages staff to bring their individuality, ideas, and passion for animal welfare to work every day.