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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: katie.mcevoy@berwickpartners.co.uk T: +44 (0)773 404 7261
Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; in Bury St Edmunds 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 Bury St Edmunds
✨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 understanding the Shrine's mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their spiritual purpose and operational needs. Tailoring your responses to reflect their ethos will definitely make an impression!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After your interview, drop a thank-you email to express your appreciation. It’s a simple gesture that shows your enthusiasm and professionalism, making you memorable.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through our platform, as it helps us keep track of all candidates efficiently. Plus, it shows you're keen on being part of our community right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; in Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that align with the COO role. Highlight your financial stewardship and operational leadership experience, as these are key for us at The Shrine.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for our mission and how your background in charity finance and governance can contribute to our long-term sustainability.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We value collaborative leadership that aligns with our Christian ethos. In your application, give examples of how you've successfully led teams and engaged stakeholders in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: To ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, please apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and keep everything organised!
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 being able to articulate how your experience aligns with their goals will show that you're not just a fit for the job, but also for the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Be prepared to discuss your experience with charity finance and governance. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed budgets or improved financial processes in previous roles to the table.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role requires strong leadership skills, so think about specific instances where you've led teams or projects. Share stories that illustrate your collaborative style and how you've engaged stakeholders effectively, especially in a charitable or community-focused context.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Shrine's current challenges and future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you as well.