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- Tasks: Lead operations and finance at a key Christian pilgrimage site.
- Company: The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, a significant spiritual institution.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a lasting impact in a meaningful role.
- Other info: Collaborative environment aligned with Christian values.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team ensuring long-term sustainability.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior finance and operations experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is one of England’s most important Christian pilgrimage destinations, welcoming thousands of pilgrims and visitors each year from the UK and overseas. Alongside its devotional life, the Shrine operates a range of activities including accommodation, catering, retail, education, events and visitor services, all supporting its charitable mission. Governed by the Walsingham College Trust Association, the Shrine is now strengthening its operational and financial foundations to ensure long‑term sustainability while remaining faithful to its spiritual purpose.
The creation of the Chief Operating Officer (COO) is in response to this context. The COO will act as deputy to the Priest Administrator and provide professional leadership across finance, operations and organisational systems. This is a broad and influential role, combining financial stewardship, commercial oversight and operational leadership, enabling the Priest Administrator to focus on mission, worship and pilgrimage. This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in the long-term sustainability of a nationally significant spiritual institution.
Essential experience includes:
- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Senior level experience covering finance and operations
- Knowledge of charity finance, governance and compliance
- Commercial acumen and experience overseeing trading or income generating activities
- Strong leadership, communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- A collaborative leadership style aligned with Christian ethos and values
- Preparedness to live within reasonable / practicable travelling distance of Walsingham.
For an informal and confidential discussion, please speak with our advisors at Berwick Partners; Katie McEvoy – Consultant - Berwick Partners E:T: +44 (0)773 404 7261
Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; in Bristol employer: Berwick Partners
Contact Detail:
Berwick Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Shrine’s mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see your passion for their work and how you can contribute to their long-term sustainability.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. We love hearing about your collaborative style and how it fits with the Christian ethos of the Shrine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for candidates who are genuinely interested in being part of our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your qualifications, especially if you're a qualified accountant, and showcase your senior-level experience in finance and operations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your values align with the Shrine's mission. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since this role requires strong leadership, be sure to include examples of your collaborative leadership style. Talk about how you've engaged stakeholders and led teams in previous roles, especially in a charity or spiritual context.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Berwick Partners
✨Know the Shrine Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham. Understand its history, mission, and the various activities it offers. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their values and objectives.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Make sure to emphasise your experience in finance and operations, especially within a charity context. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've successfully managed financial stewardship or operational leadership, as this is crucial for the COO role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
The role requires a collaborative leadership style aligned with Christian ethos. Prepare to share instances where you've led teams effectively, engaged stakeholders, and fostered a positive working environment. This will demonstrate that you can embody the values they hold dear.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the Shrine's future plans, challenges, and how the COO can contribute to its mission. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in the role and organisation.