Cost Controller

• Job Location - Bristol or Belfast

Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. 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 UK.

The Cost Controller reports to the Cost Accountant and is assists with the coordination of the financial monitoring of the main programmes associated with the Business Unit (BU), contributing to the ongoing evaluation of their financial situation and the preparation of the necessary financial projections to facilitate decision-making aimed at achieving programme objectives

Control the integrity of data and analyse the data to assist with the reporting of financial information to the Cost Account Management (CAM) for projects and/or business unit.

Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure financial objectives are aligned with the overall goals.

The Cost Controller is responsible for monitoring, analysing, and controlling project costs to ensure they remain within budget. The role involves close collaboration with project managers, procurement teams, and finance departments to provide accurate financial information and forecasts.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities

Budget Management:

• Develop and maintain project budgets (POA).
• Monitor expenditures and ensure they are aligned with budgetary constraints.
• Identify and report any financial risks or discrepancies.
• Assist with budget reallocations
• Assist with the contingency reserve management process

Cost Analysis:

• Conduct detailed cost analysis and variance reports.
• Analyse project cost performance, identifying trends, and providing insights.
• Evaluate cost efficiency and suggest cost-saving measures.

Financial Reporting:

• Prepare regular financial reports, including cost forecasts and budget updates.
• Report on financial performance to cost accountant and project managers

Project Support:

• Assist project managers in financial planning and cost control.
• Participate in project meetings, providing financial insights and updates.
• Support procurement activities by reviewing and approving project-related expenses.

Documentation and Compliance:

• Maintain accurate records of all financial transactions and project costs.
• Ensure all financial activities comply with company policies and regulations.
• Prepare documentation for audits and reviews.

Coordination and Communication:

• Coordinate with various departments to gather necessary financial information.
• Communicate financial status and issues to relevant stakeholders.
• Provide training and support to project teams on cost management processes.
• Effective written and verbal communication.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Analytical and detail-oriented mindset.
• Financial integrity and accuracy.
• Strong planning and organisational skills.
• Ability to work effectively across multiple departments.
• Proactive problem-solving and continuous improvement attitude.
• Effective written and verbal communication.

Education and Experience

Essential:

• Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field or demonstrable experience and / or ability to learn and adapt
• Proven experience in cost control, financial analysis, or project accounting within a project-driven environment
• Strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in MS Excel and financial/project control systems (e.g., SAP, IFS)
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities.

Desirable:

• Professional qualification or progress toward one (e.g., CIMA, ACCA).
• Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM)

Typically requires undergraduate degree and some experience, or equivalent.

• Competitive base pay
• Company pension
• 33 days holiday
• Life assurance
• Healthcare Cash Plan (optional)

***Please note as part of the onboarding process all candidates will need to complete BPSS security clearance***

We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination.

We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.

If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role on-line please contact us at [email protected] and one of the team will be in contact to help you.