Financial Controller

NAVANTIA UK; Northam; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading shipbuilding company in Northam is looking for a Financial Controller to oversee financial operations at the Appledore site. This role demands a qualified finance professional with over 4 years of management experience, strong analytical skills, and a background in finance and manufacturing. You'll drive financial reporting, planning, and compliance while leading a small team. The position offers opportunities for impact and career growth in a pivotal sector.

Qualifications

• 4+ years' post-qualification management experience in finance.
• Background in shipbuilding, construction, or manufacturing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial operations including reporting and planning.
• Deliver accurate monthly accounts and cash flow forecasts.
• Ensure robust compliance and audit readiness.
• Lead and develop a small finance team.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Proactive mindset

Communication skills

Excel proficiency

PowerPoint skills

Education

ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification

Tools

SAP

Job description

Company Description

Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state‑owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history.

In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish.

By combining Harland & Wolff's proud heritage and facilities with Navantia's global expertise, Navantia UK is well‑positioned to strengthen Britain's defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the country.

Job Description

Financial Controller

Location: Appledore

Join a team that's shaping the future of shipbuilding. As Financial Controller, you'll take the lead on all things finance at our Appledore site - driving insight, efficiency, and smart decision‑making across the business.

This is a hands‑on leadership role for a qualified finance professional who's as comfortable in the detail as they are in the big picture. You'll oversee everything from financial reporting and cash flow to forecasting and compliance, while helping senior leaders make confident, data‑driven decisions.

What You'll Do

• Own the site's financial operations - reporting, analysis, planning, and risk management.
• Deliver accurate monthly accounts, Board packs, and cash flow forecasts.
• Partner with the CFO and wider finance team to optimise performance and drive profitability.
• Ensure robust compliance, audit readiness, and control processes.
• Lead and develop a small finance team, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Streamline processes and champion smarter, more efficient ways of working.

What You'll Bring

• ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification (or equivalent).
• 4+ years' post‑qualification and management experience in finance.
• Background in shipbuilding, construction, or manufacturing preferred.
• Sharp analytical skills, attention to detail, and proactive mindset.
• Confidence communicating financial information to all levels of the business.
• Strong Excel and PowerPoint skills (ERP experience - SAP ideal).

Why Join Us?

This is your opportunity to play a pivotal role in a company with a proud heritage and ambitious growth plans. You'll have the autonomy to make an impact, the backing of an experienced leadership team, and the chance to grow your career in an exciting and evolving sector.

If you're ready to take the lead and make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Additional Information

If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role on‑line please contact us at people.skills@harland‑wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.