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- 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 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 spiritual destination.
- 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 of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; Salary: £60,000 - £70,000 per annum (plus benefits) in King's Lynn 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 of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; Salary: £60,000 - £70,000 per annum (plus benefits) 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 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 ethos and demonstrate your commitment.
✨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! 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 important mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; Salary: £60,000 - £70,000 per annum (plus benefits) in King's Lynn
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 of Our Lady of Walsingham.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for our mission and how your background in charity finance and governance makes you the perfect fit for this role. We want to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, emphasise your collaborative leadership style and how it aligns with our Christian ethos. We’re looking for someone who can engage stakeholders effectively and lead with compassion.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this pivotal role in our community.
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 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.
✨Emphasise Collaborative Leadership
The role requires a collaborative leadership style. Think of instances where you've worked effectively with diverse teams or stakeholders. Share how you fostered communication and engagement, especially in a charity or community-focused environment, to show you're a good fit for their ethos.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with insightful questions about the Shrine's future plans, challenges, and opportunities. 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.