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- Tasks: Lead operations and finance at a key Christian pilgrimage site.
- Company: The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, a historic spiritual destination.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £60,000 - £70,000 plus additional benefits.
- Other info: Collaborative environment aligned with Christian values and strong community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on the sustainability of a nationally significant institution.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior experience in finance and operations.
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 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 both operational excellence and the spiritual mission they uphold.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed operations. 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 the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for candidates who are genuinely excited about joining our mission.
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 mentioned in the job description. Highlight your qualifications, especially if you're a qualified accountant, and any relevant 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. Don’t forget to mention your leadership style and how it fits with their Christian ethos.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on your commercial acumen and any oversight of income-generating activities. Use specific examples to demonstrate your impact in previous roles, especially in charity finance and governance.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
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.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a COO, your financial expertise is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your experience with charity finance, governance, and compliance. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed budgets or improved financial processes in previous roles to demonstrate your capability.
✨Emphasise Collaborative Leadership
The role requires a collaborative leadership style that aligns with Christian ethos. Think of examples from your past where you've led teams effectively, engaged stakeholders, and fostered a positive working environment. Highlight how you can bring people together to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare insightful questions about the Shrine's future plans, challenges, and how the COO role fits into their mission. This shows your strategic thinking and genuine interest in contributing to their long-term sustainability.