Risk & Compliance

Hugo, Senior Risk Manager, relocated from Brazil

I started working for Nationwide in January 2016 after 15 years with another financial company in Brazil.

Of course, there are always going to be some challenges surrounding relocating abroad. Besides adapting to regional and cultural aspects, there is also a different corporate culture to get used to. You’ve definitely got to be open and adaptable. In my case, both HR and my line manager played a very important role helping me to have a smooth transition and to find my feet quickly. My team was also very supportive.

I’ve settled in really well, having been able to find a nice place to live in the countryside with my family. I’m also satisfied with the work-life balance that Nationwide supports, so I’m able to spend plenty of quality time with my wife, daughter and our dogs.

One piece of advice I’d give those who are considering relocating from abroad is to definitely plan ahead and be prepared for the upcoming challenges you will be facing. In addition to the professional side of things, even the most basic of matters such as opening a bank account and renting a house can be difficult without thorough planning, especially having no credit history or previous address in the UK.

Living in the UK and working at Nationwide has provided me with a valuable opportunity to continue building my career. My medium-term goal is to focus on achieving a higher level within the organisation, I truly believe that this is achievable as Nationwide seems like a company where hard work pays off!

Angel, Risk Manager Lead, relocated from Bulgaria

The decision to come to work in the UK was not an easy one to make. However, I had high hopes about my new life in the UK when I decided to move, but I was a little uncertain about what I should expect.

Now, two years later, I feel that I’ve settled in really well. My wife has also been able to join me in the UK and is now working at Nationwide too. The best thing about working at Nationwide and living in Swindon has been the people. My teammates and colleagues from the wider team have been very supportive and really friendly. It’s great to be able to learn, develop and work alongside positive and dedicated people. The friends I have made along the way have also helped to make life here really enjoyable.

Nationwide provided me with a relocation package and supported me in finding a place to stay. My colleagues also gave me advice and guidance in searching for a place to rent, using their own experience.

I was really proud to be an Employee of the Year finalist during my first year at Nationwide. These awards acknowledge Nationwide’s appreciation of employees’ efforts, contributions and behaviour, and to be considered for this award was an honour.

Striking a healthy work-life balance is easy here; I’m able to enjoy a flexible working pattern and the opportunity to work from home one day a week. Outside of work I enjoy playing tennis with friends, going on motorcycle rides and enjoying the brilliant landscape and wonderful nature. Both my wife and I have a monthly subscription for the local cinema and we enjoy watching movies and meeting with friends.