At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and finance at a historic Christian pilgrimage site.
- Company: The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, a key spiritual destination in England.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, plus benefits, with a focus on sustainability.
- Other info: Collaborative environment aligned with Christian values and strong community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while supporting a vital charitable mission.
- 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 strengthening its operational and financial foundations to ensure long‑term sustainability while remaining faithful to its spiritual purpose.
Responsibilities
- The COO will act as deputy to the Priest Administrator and provide professional leadership across finance, operations and organisational systems.
- The role combines financial stewardship, commercial oversight and operational leadership to support the shrine’s mission.
Qualifications
- 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 of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norf[...] in King's Lynn employer: Berwick Partners
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead operations at one of England's most significant pilgrimage sites. With a strong commitment to its charitable mission, the Shrine fosters a collaborative work culture that values spiritual alignment and community engagement, while providing competitive salaries and benefits. Employees can expect ample opportunities for professional growth and development in a supportive environment dedicated to preserving and enhancing the Shrine's legacy.
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 King's Lynn
✨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 that a CV 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, and don’t forget to highlight your leadership style!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable discussing your financial stewardship and operational leadership skills. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norf[...] in King's Lynn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the COO role. Highlight your financial stewardship and operational leadership experience, as these are key for us at The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham.
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 makes you the perfect fit. We want to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Leadership Style:We value collaborative leadership, so be sure to illustrate your approach in your application. Share examples of how you've engaged stakeholders and led teams effectively in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us directly, apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right hands!
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 mission, values, and the various activities it operates. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Financial Savvy
As a COO, financial stewardship is key. Be prepared to discuss your experience with charity finance and governance. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed budgets or improved financial processes in previous roles to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Emphasise Collaborative Leadership
The role requires a collaborative leadership style. Think of instances where you've worked effectively with diverse teams or stakeholders. Highlight your communication skills and how you've fostered a positive working environment that aligns with Christian values.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the Shrine's future plans, challenges, and how the COO can contribute to its mission. This shows your strategic thinking and genuine interest in the role.
