Receptionist

About the Role

You’ll be the first point of contact for pet owners in genuine need, setting the tone for their experience from the moment they walk through the door or call. Working as part of a busy reception team at PDSA Oldbury, you’ll juggle client check-ins, telephone enquiries, and the admin that keeps things running smoothly—all while staying calm and composed in a fast-paced environment. This is a temporary position running for 3–6 months, with a varied shift pattern including weekdays, weekends and bank holidays.

PDSA has been providing vital veterinary care for pets of people in financial hardship for over a century, and the team at Oldbury is part of that mission. You’ll work alongside colleagues who are genuinely passionate about helping both pets and their owners.

Key Responsibilities

• Process clients attending the hospital, ensuring smooth check-ins and departures
• Handle incoming telephone enquiries with a professional and sympathetic manner
• Encourage appropriate financial contributions from clients in a sensitive, supportive way
• Maintain accurate PDSA paperwork and records using computerised systems
• Prioritise workload effectively in a busy, high-demand setting
• Respond flexibly to changing demands and shift patterns, including weekends and bank holidays

Requirements

• Excellent communication skills and a warm, professional telephone manner
• Ability to stay organised and reliable under pressure
• Previous office or reception experience (including word processing and computerised record systems) is an advantage, but not essential
• A caring, compassionate approach to customer service
• Flexibility to work varied shifts including weekdays, weekends and bank holidays
• Keen to learn and happy to work as part of a supportive team

Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate of £13.47–£13.93
• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays (pro rata)
• Three paid special days off annually: Volunteering Day, Celebration Day and Wellbeing Day
• Flexible working options to support work–life balance
• Generous pension contributions from 5% rising to 10%
• Life assurance worth four times your annual salary
• 24/7 wellbeing support via AXA Health Employee Assistance Programme
• 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 veterinary charity that has been supporting pet owners in financial hardship since its foundation over 100 years ago. The organisation has grown significantly and now operates multiple locations across the country, with a large, collaborative team united by a mission to keep pets and their owners together when times are tough.

The Oldbury branch is part of this expanding network. PDSA is committed to diversity, inclusion and creating a welcoming environment where all team members can thrive. The organisation prioritises safeguarding and maintaining high standards of conduct across all roles.