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.
Working within a progressive, multi-disciplinary referral hospital, you will play a vital role as the first point of contact for clients, supporting both clinical teams and hospital operations.
About Us:
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:
1. 22 Veterinary Surgeons
2. 18 Registered Veterinary Nurses
3. 5 Student Veterinary Nurses
4. 10 Veterinary Care Assistants
5. 3 Practice Managers
6. 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.
The Role:
As a Veterinary Receptionist / Client Care Advisor, you will be central to ensuring a smooth, welcoming, and professional client journey within the referral hospital.
Key Responsibilities:
7. Welcoming clients and managing front-of-house operations
8. Handling inbound calls, emails, and appointment scheduling
9. Coordinating referrals and liaising with first-opinion practices
10. Supporting patient admissions and discharges
11. Managing payments, invoicing, and insurance documentation
12. Maintaining accurate client and patient records
13. Supporting the clinical team with day-to-day administrative tasks
14. Ensuring the reception and client areas are professional, organised, and welcoming
What We’re Looking For:
We are seeking a confident and compassionate individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering excellent service.
Key Attributes:
15. Strong communication and interpersonal skills
16. Calm, professional manner, particularly with anxious clients
17. Initiative: Able to take ownership of tasks and anticipate client and team needs
18. Organisation: Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritise workload
19. Teamwork: Collaborative approach within a multidisciplinary hospital team
20. Reliability and a positive, can-do attitude
Previous experience in a veterinary or medical reception role is desirable, however full training will be provided.
About You:
Essential Requirements:
21. Excellent customer service and communication skills
22. Confidence using computer systems and managing appointments
23. Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment
Desirable:
24. Previous reception or client-facing experience
25. Experience within veterinary, medical, or healthcare settings
Professional Attributes:
26. High standards of client care and confidentiality
27. Proactive and organised approach to work
28. Commitment to animal welfare and practice values
Working Pattern:
29. FT Applicants (40hours) or Weekend positions available
30. Day shifts only
31. Flexible shift patterns available
Salary & Benefits:
Salary: From £26,500 per annum (FTE), depending on experience
Salary review expected after 12 months’ service
Benefits include:
32. Competitive salary with structured performance reviews
33. Pension scheme
34. Life assurance (4x annual salary)
35. 22 days annual leave including bank holidays
36. Increasing to 26 days after 24 months’ service
37. 20% colleague discount at Pets at Home, The Groom Room, and Vets4Pets
38. Access to additional corporate benefits and wellbeing initiatives
Why Join Our Referral Hospital?
39. Work within a modern, well-equipped referral hospital
40. Supportive and collaborative team culture
41. Varied and interesting role within a clinical environment
42. Opportunities for long-term development within the business
How to Apply:
Individuals interested in joining our referral hospital client care team are encouraged to apply or arrange a confidential discussion.
43. Email:
44. Application: Online submission available
All enquiries and applications are treated confidentially and without obligation.
Location: CO3 8PB
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!