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 destination.
- Benefits: Salary of £60,000 – £70,000 plus additional benefits.
- Other info: Collaborative environment aligned with Christian values and ethos.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the sustainability of a nationally important institution.
- 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.
Location: Walsingham, Norfolk.
Salary: £60,000 – £70,000 per annum (plus benefits).
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.
Key responsibilities- The COO will act as deputy to the Priest Administrator and provide professional leadership across finance, operations and organisational systems.
- This broad and influential role combines financial stewardship, commercial oversight and operational leadership, enabling the Priest Administrator to focus on mission, worship and pilgrimage.
- 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
This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in the long‑term sustainability of a nationally significant spiritual institution.
Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norf[...] in Great Yarmouth 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. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and the chance to engage with a diverse community of pilgrims and visitors in the picturesque setting of Walsingham, Norfolk. This role not only allows for personal growth but also plays a crucial part in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Shrine's charitable mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norf[...] in Great Yarmouth
✨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. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Shrine’s mission and values. Understand their operations and how your skills can contribute to their goals. We want you to show that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for their community and ethos.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the COO role. Highlight your financial stewardship and operational leadership skills, and how they can help strengthen the Shrine’s foundations while supporting its spiritual mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Shrine’s journey. Don’t forget to follow up after applying; a little persistence can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norf[...] in Great Yarmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in finance and operations, especially in a charity context. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at the Shrine!
Showcase Your Leadership Style:We’re looking for someone with a collaborative leadership style. Use your application to demonstrate how you’ve successfully led teams and engaged stakeholders in previous roles. Share specific examples that reflect your values.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to emphasise your qualifications as a qualified accountant and any senior-level experience you have. We want to know how your background prepares you for this pivotal role in our organisation.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Berwick Partners
✨Know Your Mission
Before the interview, take some time to understand the Shrine's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with its role as a pilgrimage destination and how it supports its charitable activities. This will help you align your answers with their ethos 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 your financial stewardship can contribute to 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. Share stories that showcase your ability to engage stakeholders and foster a positive working environment, especially in contexts that align with Christian values.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about the Shrine's future plans, challenges, and community engagement. This not only shows your genuine interest but also gives you a chance to assess if this role aligns with your own values and career goals.
