At a Glance
- 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 experience in finance and operations.
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 Fakenham employer: Berwick Partners
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham offers a unique and fulfilling work environment, deeply rooted in its spiritual mission while providing diverse operational activities that support its charitable goals. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that values leadership and personal growth, alongside the opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant institution in a picturesque location. With a commitment to long-term sustainability, the Shrine fosters an atmosphere where meaningful work aligns with personal values, making it an exceptional employer for those seeking purpose-driven careers.
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 Fakenham
✨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 the interview by understanding the Shrine's mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their spiritual purpose and operational needs. Tailor your responses to highlight your leadership style and financial expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After your interview, drop a thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at the Shrine and contributing to its mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; in Fakenham
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 through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
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 genuine interest in the position.
✨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 in previous roles. Be ready to discuss how these experiences can benefit the Shrine.
✨Emphasise Collaborative Leadership
The role requires a collaborative leadership style. Think of instances where 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 charity or community setting.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about the Shrine's future plans, challenges, and how the COO role fits into their vision. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you as well.
