Healthcare Team – Administrative Staff

Our health care team at St. Francis Vet Hospital all have one thing in common – they are passionate about pets! From our highly experienced vets, to our dedicated nurses/kennelman and welcoming reception staff, everyone at St Francis Veterinary Hospital works together to provide you and your pet with the best possible care.

Our team is dedicated to providing a service to our patients and clients of the highest possible standard. The team continually review their facilities, equipment and training in order to implement their policy of always striving to exceed the expectations of all who visit the hospital.

Our comprehensive patient record system allows us to care for your pet as a team, however you can request which vet you would like to see, and our friendly reception team will gladly assist you with booking your appointment.

Melissa Lehman Calitz

Practice Manager

Melissa Lehman Calitz has been a cornerstone of the St Francis Veterinary Hospital team since 2008. With over a decade of hands-on experience in the veterinary field, she brings a wealth of operational knowledge and leadership to the practice. Her commitment to professional growth is reflected in her regular participation in industry seminars and ongoing development initiatives.

As Practice Manager, Melissa is instrumental in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the hospital. Her dynamic, solutions-focused approach enables her to oversee a broad range of responsibilities, including human resources, financial management, client services, marketing, and project coordination. She works closely with the hospital’s owners, Dr. Simon Rigby and Dr. Leigh-Anne Ehmke, to uphold the clinic’s high standards of patient care and exceptional client service.

Melissa’s journey in the veterinary industry began as a part-time receptionist while pursuing her studies. Her drive, dedication, and deep affinity for animals quickly propelled her into leadership. She holds a diploma in Travel and Tourism from Hartwell Business Institute, graduating top of her class, as well as a degree in Public Relations with a focus on Management and Marketing from the University of South Africa (UNISA).

Passionate about animal wellness, Melissa leads the hospital’s successful Pet Slimmer Programme, helping numerous pets reach and maintain healthy weights through tailored care and client education.

Outside the practice, Melissa enjoys the outdoors, whether scuba diving, exploring local farmers markets, or retreating to the countryside. Most of all, she cherishes time spent with her family, making lasting memories together.

Tersha Malan

Head Receptionist

Tersha Malan has been a valued member of the St Francis Veterinary Hospital team since 2012 and currently serves as our Head Receptionist. With nearly two decades of experience in customer service, she brings warmth, professionalism, and exceptional organizational skills to the heart of our front office.

Originally from Primrose, Tersha began her journey in customer service at a young age, gaining early experience in the retail sector during school holidays. Following her matriculation in 2002, she transitioned into the corporate world, taking on a managerial role as a Call Centre Supervisor at M2 North, where she led a team of 11 agents. She later expanded her experience into the human healthcare industry, working as an admissions clerk at Glynwood Hospital.

Driven by her lifelong love for animals, Tersha joined the St Francis team in 2012 as a full-time receptionist. Her passion for client care and her ability to create a welcoming, efficient front-of-house environment quickly earned her the role of Head Receptionist. She works closely with Practice Manager Melissa Lehman Calitz to ensure that staff are well-trained, client interactions are seamless, and service standards remain consistently high.

Tersha also coordinates our very successful Puppy School program, bringing new pet owners the tools, guidance, and support they need during their pet’s early development.

Outside of work, Tersha enjoys spending time with her family, watching cricket, hosting a traditional braai, or relaxing with a good movie.