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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, with a focus on sustainability.
- Other info: Collaborative environment aligned with Christian values and ethos.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of a nationally important spiritual destination.
- 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.
Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady ofWalsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; Salary: £60,000 –£70,000 per annum (plus benefits) 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 ofWalsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; Salary: £60,000 –£70,000 per annum (plus benefits)
✨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 on the lookout for candidates who are genuinely interested in making a difference at the Shrine.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady ofWalsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; Salary: £60,000 –£70,000 per annum (plus benefits)
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! Use it to express 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, 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 connect with you!
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 help you align your answers with their spiritual purpose and demonstrate your commitment to their cause.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a COO, you'll need to highlight your experience in finance and operations. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed budgets, improved financial processes, or overseen income-generating activities. Be ready to discuss how these experiences can benefit the Shrine's long-term sustainability.
✨Emphasise Collaborative Leadership
The role requires a collaborative leadership style, so think about times when you've worked effectively with diverse teams or stakeholders. Share stories that illustrate your ability to engage and inspire others while maintaining a focus on shared goals, especially in a charitable context.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about the Shrine's future plans, challenges, and opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you as well.