At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and finance at a significant spiritual institution.
- Company: The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, a key Christian pilgrimage site.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a lasting impact in a charitable organisation.
- 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.
Locations
Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfol... in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk employer: Berwick Partners
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant spiritual institution while fostering a collaborative and mission-driven work culture. Employees benefit from a supportive environment that values professional growth, with opportunities to engage in diverse activities ranging from finance to visitor services, all within the serene and inspiring setting of Walsingham. Joining our team means being part of a dedicated community committed to both operational excellence and spiritual purpose.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfol... in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
✨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 diving deep into the Shrine's mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your answers to reflect your understanding of their operations and how you can contribute to their long-term sustainability.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-up! After your interview, drop a thank-you note to express your appreciation. It’s a simple gesture that keeps you on their radar and shows your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfol... in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
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 your accounting credentials and leadership experience, to show us you're the right fit for the COO role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the Shrine's mission and how your background aligns with their needs. Keep it engaging and personal, so we can see your enthusiasm.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In your application, emphasise your collaborative leadership style and how it aligns with the Christian ethos of the Shrine. We want to know how you engage with stakeholders and foster teamwork in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham.
How to prepare for a job interview at Berwick Partners
✨Know the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to understand the Shrine's mission and values. This role is deeply tied to its spiritual purpose, so showing that you resonate with their ethos will set you apart.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in charity finance and governance. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you've successfully managed finances or improved operational efficiency.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your communication and stakeholder engagement skills during the interview. Think of instances where you've collaborated with diverse groups, as this will be crucial in your role at the Shrine.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your leadership style and decision-making abilities. Prepare by thinking through how you would handle challenges related to operations and finance while staying true to the Shrine's mission.
