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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: Competitive salary, plus benefits, and a chance to make a real impact.
- 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 experience in finance and operations.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ 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.
Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; Salary: £60,000 – £70,000 per annum (plus benefits) (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; Salary: £60,000 – £70,000 per annum (plus benefits) (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 land you that COO role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Shrine’s mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their spiritual purpose and operational needs. Tailor your answers to reflect their ethos, and you'll stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. 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, Norfolk; Salary: £60,000 – £70,000 per annum (plus benefits) (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 of Our Lady of Walsingham.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for our mission and how your background in charity finance and governance makes you the perfect fit for this role.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We value collaborative leadership that aligns with our Christian ethos. In your application, share 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 through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you promptly!
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. Familiarise yourself with its history and the role it plays in the community. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their spiritual purpose.
✨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.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role requires strong leadership skills, so think of specific instances where you've led teams or projects. Share how you foster collaboration and engagement among stakeholders, especially in a faith-based context, to illustrate your alignment with their ethos.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare thoughtful questions about the Shrine's future plans and challenges. This shows that you're not just interested in the role but also invested in the organisation's long-term sustainability and mission.