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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 Norwich 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 Norwich
✨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 their spiritual purpose. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with their goals – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! As a COO, you’ll need to demonstrate strong leadership skills. Think of specific examples where you’ve led teams or projects successfully, and be ready to share them during interviews. We love hearing about real-life experiences!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there, so keep an eye out for any roles that match your skills and passion for the mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfolk; in Norwich
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 your accounting credentials and leadership experience, to show us you’re the right fit for the COO role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the Shrine’s mission and how your background aligns with their needs. Keep it engaging and personal, so we can see your enthusiasm.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, emphasise your collaborative leadership style and how it aligns with the Christian ethos of the Shrine. We want to know how you engage with stakeholders and foster a positive working environment.
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 exciting opportunity at the Shrine.
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 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'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 a charity or community-focused setting.
✨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 helps you assess if this role aligns with your own values and career goals.