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: 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.
For an informal and confidential discussion, please speak with our advisors at Berwick Partners; Katie McEvoy – Consultant - Berwick Partners.
Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady ofWalsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; Salary: £60,000 –£70,000 per annum (plus benefits) in Fakenham employer: Berwick Partners
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a significant spiritual institution while enjoying a supportive work culture that values collaboration and Christian ethos. With a focus on employee growth and development, the role of Chief Operating Officer provides a chance to lead diverse operational activities in a picturesque location, ensuring long-term sustainability for the Shrine's mission. The competitive salary and benefits package further enhance the appeal of working in this meaningful environment.
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) 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 a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Shrine's mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in finance and operations. Tailor your answers to reflect their Christian ethos and commitment to sustainability.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process. We want to see your application shine, so make sure to highlight your leadership skills and experience in charity finance. Let’s get you that COO position!
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) in Fakenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match 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 aligns with our values. We want to see your personality come through!
Showcase Relevant Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on your senior-level roles in finance and operations. We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate commercial acumen and leadership skills that resonate with our charitable mission.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
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 Leadership Style
The role requires strong leadership and a collaborative approach. Think about times when you've led teams or projects, especially in a charity or community-focused environment. Be prepared to share how your leadership style aligns with the Christian ethos and how you can foster a positive culture at the Shrine.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Stakeholder engagement is key for this position. Prepare to discuss your experience in building relationships with various stakeholders, whether they are staff, volunteers, or external partners. Highlight your communication skills and how you can effectively engage with different groups to support the Shrine's mission.
