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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: 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 finance and operations experience.
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.
Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; in Newmarket 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; in Newmarket
✨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 chats. 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. Show us that you’re not just after a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing to their spiritual purpose. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about times you’ve successfully led teams or managed projects. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and make them memorable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the team at the Shrine. Keep an eye on our site for updates and new opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; in Newmarket
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your qualifications, especially if you're a qualified accountant, and showcase your senior-level experience in finance and operations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your values align with the Shrine's mission. Don’t forget to mention your leadership style and how it fits with their Christian ethos.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on experiences that demonstrate your commercial acumen and knowledge of charity finance. Be specific about your achievements in overseeing trading or income-generating activities.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
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 not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their spiritual purpose.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. 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.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role requires strong leadership skills, so think about specific instances where you've led teams or projects. Share stories that illustrate your collaborative style and how you've engaged stakeholders effectively, especially in a charitable context.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare thoughtful questions about the Shrine's future plans and challenges. This shows you're not just interested in the role but also invested in the organisation's long-term sustainability and mission.