Accounts Payable Assistant

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.

We’re hiring an Accounts Payable Assistant to join our Finance team. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to build strong foundations in finance while gaining hands‑on experience in a busy accounts payable function. You’ll play a key role in ensuring supplier invoices and employee expenses are processed accurately, on time, and in line with company procedures.

Responsibilities

• Processing supplier invoices, including matching to purchase orders and accurate coding
• Investigating and resolving invoice and payment queries
• Supporting weekly supplier payment runs
• Performing supplier statement reconciliations
• Processing employee expense claims
• Assisting with month‑end activities, journals, and reporting
• Liaising with internal teams, procurement, and external suppliers
• Supporting the wider finance team when required

Requirements

• Strong attention to detail and high levels of accuracy
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks
• Confident communication skills when working with colleagues and suppliers
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other MS Office tools
• A proactive, flexible approach and willingness to learn
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team

This role is office‑based and offers excellent exposure to core finance processes, ideal for someone early in their finance career or looking to progress within accounts payable. 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.

Qualifications

• A-levels or equivalent (including maths or business)
• Microsoft Excel (basic formulas, spreadsheets)
• Previous experience in a finance or accounting role is desirable but not essential, as full systems training will be provided.
• Experience working with ERP systems, particularly SAP, would be advantageous

Benefits

• Competitive base salary
• Company pension
• 31 days holiday
• Life assurance

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