Nadia Cardozo

Having only been in the catering industry for a short period, Nadia is making some big strides. Recently starting a Hospitality Supervisor Apprenticeship, Nadia is only growing in confidence, something that is clear to see when speaking to her.

Upon meeting Nadia, you are instantly greeted with a smile and a happy attitude, someone who brings out the good side in people she works with.

Find out more about Nadia’s story, from moving to the UK, working as a dog walker, and a lover of travel below.

Where did you start your catering journey? 

Technically I began my catering journey working in a restaurant for a month, however, I wouldn’t class this as the beginning. I started at Barings two years ago, which I would say is my first real introduction to catering. Everything I’ve learnt so far has been here, and it’s what got me to like what I do.

Tell us about your journey and how you started out in the UK?

Before I joined Barings and the restaurant shift, I was working as a dog walker for five dogs, but if we want to go all the way back, I moved to the UK from Spain in 2019 as my Dad ended up in hospital in London on a work trip. I liked it enough here to permanently move here even after my Dad flew back to Spain. After a short time, my Mother also moved to the UK to be closer to me and my brother.

How did you get into your role at Barings

I am lucky that one of my colleagues, Veruska, knew my mother threw the church, so she mentioned to her that Barings were looking for a new employee. Since I was also looking for a job at the time, I applied. After applying, I ended up having an interview with Sara and it all went well, one week later I was in the job!

How have you found Thomas Franks as a company?

Thomas Franks has given me a lot, I have learnt so much from people here. I joined the Hospitality Supervisor Apprenticeship in 2024, so since then, I have learnt even more.  

What are you looking forward to as the journey continues?

 If I’m honest, I’ve not quite figured it out, I’m still young and learning a lot as I progress, which is something I am really enjoying. I would like to do more hospitality, however in the future I could see myself doing more around what Mariana does as a General Manager. I like people and being able to help them out day to day.

What would you have done if not catering?

I wanted to study travel and tourism, I love to learn all about cultures and people. This is backed up by my love for travel where I can find out new things about different places.