At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and finance to support a significant spiritual institution.
- Company: The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, a key Christian pilgrimage site.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a lasting impact in a spiritually enriching environment.
- Other info: Collaborative leadership aligned with Christian values is essential.
- Why this job: Play a pivotal role in ensuring the Shrine's long-term sustainability.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with senior experience in finance and operations.
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 in Norwich employer: Berwick Partners
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant spiritual institution while fostering a collaborative and mission-driven work culture. Employees benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises professional growth, with opportunities to engage in diverse activities ranging from finance to visitor services, all within the serene and inspiring setting of Walsingham. Joining our team means being part of a dedicated community committed to long-term sustainability and the spiritual journey of countless pilgrims.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the Shrine. 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. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about our work!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams or projects successfully. We want to hear about your collaborative style and how it fits with the Shrine's ethos.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer in Norwich
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.
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 can contribute to our long-term sustainability.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:We value collaborative leadership that aligns with our Christian ethos. In your application, give examples of how you've engaged stakeholders and led teams effectively in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:To ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, make sure to apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
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. This role is deeply tied to its spiritual purpose, so being able to articulate how your experience aligns with their goals will show that you're not just a fit for the job, but for the organisation as a whole.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial expertise. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've managed finances in previous roles, particularly in a charity or non-profit context. Highlight any experience you have with compliance and governance, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Emphasise Leadership Style
This position requires strong leadership and collaboration. Think about your leadership style and be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Make sure to convey your ability to engage stakeholders and foster a collaborative environment that aligns with Christian values.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Shrine's operations, challenges, and future plans. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you insight into whether this is the right fit for you. It’s a great way to demonstrate your strategic thinking and commitment to the organisation's mission.
