At a Glance
- 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 real 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 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 (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfol... in Wells-next-the-Sea employer: Berwick Partners
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to a significant spiritual institution while fostering a collaborative and mission-driven work culture. Employees benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises professional growth, with the chance to engage in diverse operational activities that enhance both personal and organisational development. Located in the serene setting of Walsingham, this role not only allows for meaningful work but also offers a fulfilling lifestyle amidst a vibrant community dedicated to faith and service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfol... in Wells-next-the-Sea
✨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 might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Shrine's mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals. Being able to speak passionately about their work will definitely make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about times you've successfully led teams or projects. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your skills in finance and operations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer (COO); The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham; Location: Walsingham, Norfol... in Wells-next-the-Sea
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. Use specific examples to illustrate your achievements in overseeing trading or income-generating activities.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t hesitate to take that step!
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 ethos.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in finance and operations. Prepare specific examples from your past experience where 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. Highlight your communication skills and how you've fostered a positive working environment, especially in a charity or community-focused setting.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the Shrine's future plans, challenges, and how the COO role fits into their long-term strategy. This shows your strategic thinking and genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
