Veterinary Receptionist​/Client Care Advisor

Veterinary Receptionist / Client Care Advisor - Referral Hospital

Vets for Pets Colchester Referral Hospital is seeking a friendly, organised, and proactive Veterinary Receptionist / Client Care Advisor to join our established referral hospital team. This is a day‑based role offering an excellent opportunity to develop within a busy, professional veterinary environment that delivers advanced patient care and exceptional client service.

Our purpose‑built Referral Hospital in Colchester is equipped with advanced diagnostic, medical, and surgical facilities, providing high‑level inpatient and outpatient referral care. We work closely with associated first‑opinion practices to ensure seamless continuity of care for patients and clients.

Across our Colchester sites, our wider team includes:

• 22 Veterinary Surgeons
• 18 Registered Veterinary Nurses
• 5 Student Veterinary Nurses
• 10 Veterinary Care Assistants
• 3 Practice Managers
• 15 Client Care Advisors

Vets for Pets Colchester has experienced consistent growth over the past 20 years, with continued investment in facilities, services, and team development.

As a Veterinary Receptionist / Client Care Advisor, you will be central to ensuring a smooth, welcoming, and professional client journey within the referral hospital.

• Welcoming clients and managing front‑of‑house operations
• Handling inbound calls, emails, and appointment scheduling
• Coordinating referrals and liaising with first‑opinion practices
• Supporting patient admissions and discharges
• Managing payments, invoicing, and insurance documentation
• Maintaining accurate client and patient records
• Supporting the clinical team with day‑to‑day administrative tasks
• Ensuring the reception and client areas are professional, organised, and welcoming

We are seeking a confident and compassionate individual who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and takes pride in delivering excellent service.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Calm, professional manner, particularly with anxious clients
• Initiative:
  Able to take ownership of tasks and anticipate client and team needs
• Organisation:
  Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritise workload
• Teamwork:
  Collaborative approach within a multidisciplinary hospital team
• Reliability and a positive, can‑do attitude

Previous experience in a veterinary or medical reception role is desirable, however full training will be provided.

• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Confidence using computer systems and managing appointments
• Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment

• Previous reception or client‑facing experience
• Experience with in veterinary, medical, or healthcare settings

• High standards of client care and confidentiality
• Proactive and organised approach to work
• Commitment to animal welfare and practice values

• FT Applicants (40 hours) or Weekend positions available
• Day shifts only
• Flexible shift patterns available

Salary:
From £26,500 per annum (FTE), depending on experience. Salary review expected after 12 months’ service.

• Competitive salary with structured performance reviews
• Pension scheme
• Life assurance (4x annual salary)
• 22 days annual leave including bank holidays
• Increasing to 26 days after 24 months’ service
• 20% colleague discount at Pets at Home, The Groom Room, and Vets4
  
  Pets
• Access to additional corporate benefits and wellbeing initiatives

• Work within a modern, well‑equipped referral hospital
• Supportive and collaborative team culture
• Varied and interesting role within a clinical environment
• Opportunities for long‑term development within the business

Individuals interested in joining our referral hospital client care team are encouraged to apply or arrange a confidential discussion.

• Email: re
• Application:
  Online submission available

All enquiries and applications are treated confidentially and without obligation.

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We take our inspiration from pets in embracing people from all walks of life, and we value, respect and celebrate difference. We encourage our people to be their best selves so that we can create a better world for Pets, our Planet, and People. Our ambition is to reflect the diversity of the communities we operate in, and we are intentional in addressing and removing barriers to create opportunities for the exceptional talent and potential in our communities.

Even if your skills and experience don’t perfectly align, if you think you can make a unique contribution through your values and behaviours, we want to hear from you!