My name is Barrington Francis – though family, friends and colleagues often call me Barry, Baz, Bazza, or simply B. Born and raised in Birmingham, I proudly carry the heritage of St Kitts and Barbados. As we celebrate Black History Month, I reflect on how culture, resilience and identity have shaped my career journey.
Beginnings rooted in heritage
Black History Month is about remembering where we come from and recognising the journeys we take. Mine began in Birmingham, a city rich in diversity and Caribbean culture. The values of hard work, pride and community instilled by my family became my foundation. My passion for hospitality started early, winning awards in Food Technology at school – proof that a young Black boy from Brum could excel in spaces not always associated with people who looked like me.
Breaking barriers in hospitality
In 1997, I began as a waiter at Brannigans Birmingham, quickly progressing to Head Bar Supervisor and Trainee Manager. By 2000, I joined Tiger Tiger and, at just 22, transferred to London. That move was more than career progression – it was about representation. In a sector where Black leadership was, and still is, underrepresented, I found myself navigating spaces where I stood out, but also stood proud.
Resilience and reinvention
My journey hasn’t been without setbacks. Redundancy as a Bar Manager was tough, but like many Black professionals, I turned adversity into opportunity. I joined Revolution Vodka Bars, later taking leadership roles at The Living Room and Cote Restaurants before teaching at University College Birmingham. Passing on knowledge to the next generation – many of whom shared my background – remains one of my proudest achievements.
Carrying community through change
In later roles with Civic Catering, Viva Brazil and ISS Facility Services UK, community remained central. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I supported staff as Training Academy Manager and Mental Health First Aider. Personal losses in 2019 tested me deeply, but the love and strength of my community carried me through – a reminder of the Black History Month message: we rise by lifting each other.
A new chapter in recruitment
In 2021, I moved into recruitment, applying my hospitality expertise to a new arena. Today, as Permanent Recruitment Team Leader at Pertemps Catering, I’m proud to create opportunities – especially for underrepresented communities seeking a fair chance.
Why this story matters during Black History Month
Black History Month isn’t just about icons of the past; it’s also about everyday journeys that highlight perseverance, representation and identity. From the bars of Birmingham to the boardrooms of recruitment, my story reflects resilience and the importance of celebrating who we are while reaching for more.
As a Black Brummie with Caribbean roots, I hope my journey inspires others to overcome challenges and embrace their identity with pride. This Black History Month, I celebrate not only my own path, but the countless journeys of Black professionals who continue to break barriers, uplift communities and redefine success.
