Marie-José
"This is all about teamwork. Not everyone for themselves, but moving forward together."
Marie-José | Business Development Manager
Marie-José (28) sees business development as jointly developing solutions that fit the way a customer works. She gets energy from making contact, building something together, and being on the move. Sometimes that happens with a good conversation, sometimes... with a bag of onions. Yes, really. "I brought them for my colleagues," she laughs. "To show them where I come from." Typical Marie-José: full of individuality and openness. She likes to share a piece of herself, because that's how connections are made. Just like we work at HeadFirst Group: with attention, commitment, and always going the extra mile.
From vocational education to bachelor's degree
Marie-José grew up in Friesland and moved to Groningen to study. She started at a vocational college, then moved on to a university of applied sciences to study Facility Management, and eventually completed a master's degree. "When I said I wanted to continue studying, my parents wondered whether that was right for me. But I thought: I'm just going to do it." That down-to-earth attitude has brought her exactly where she is today.
During her studies, she immersed herself completely in the world of hospitality. She worked as a hostess and was active at various events, ranging from trade fairs and catering assignments to FC Groningen and SC Heerenveen soccer matches. She was always in direct contact with people, often as the first point of contact and as the face of the organization. "I discovered how much I enjoy thinking on my feet, putting people at ease, and helping them."
The next step
After graduating, Marie-José started working as a sales consultant at a temp agency. She now refers to itas "the ideal starter job." She had her hands full with everything from sales and recruitment to conducting interviews, administration, absenteeism, and payroll; no two days were the same. It was precisely this variety, with a lot of responsibility and freedom, that allowed her to discover what really energized her. She continued to grow with roles in corporate recruitment, operational management, and program management. Eventually, she found herself at a crossroads again, ready to decide which direction her career would take.
Through a former internship contact in Bali, HeadFirst Group remained on her radar. She followed the company on LinkedIn, read stories from employees, and found herself becoming increasingly curious. "The employer branding really worked. That appealed to me," she says. That recognition, that feeling of 'this is right', ultimately led her to her role as business development manager. This job brings everything together for Marie-José: her drive to build relationships, her curiosity about what organizations need, and her talent for bringing the right people together.
“The strength lies not in knowing everything yourself, but in bringing together the right expertise.”
Building new relationships
In her role as business development manager, Marie-José focuses on new business: from the very first point of contact to the moment a new customer signs the contract. Leads come in via the website, but also through events, newsletters, or LinkedIn. At HeadFirst Group, customers are brought in together, which feels very different from the classic image of sales as a solo game full of targets and bonuses."Here, it's all about teamwork, strengthening each other, and taking responsibility. Not every man for himself, but moving forward together. That way, you're never alone. You learn from each other, complement each other, and everyone contributes from their own expertise. That makes working at HeadFirst Group not only more effective, but also a lot more enjoyable.
Marie-José is the team's designated contact person for RPO projects. This is not a separate role, but rather a responsibility she fulfills alongside her work in business development. Thanks to her background and experience, she is able to quickly contribute ideas, adapt, and add value when a new RPO project comes up. Her colleagues, in turn, bring a wealth of knowledge about brokering and MSP, so everyone contributes from their own strengths. This collaboration allows Marie-José to contribute her own expertise and continue to learn from the knowledge and experience of her colleagues.
Where ambitions are given space
As a business development manager, it's all about building and maintaining relationships. Of course, successes are nice, but the real work takes place in daily conversations, thinking along with customers, and building long-term trust. That is why HeadFirst Group facilitates moments when those relationships can develop naturally. By being present and organizing meetings ourselves, such as during the HR Top 100, it becomes easier to start conversations, share knowledge, and build lasting contacts. "Many organizations already know us through various sports and supplier events, which makes it a lot easier to strike up a conversation and share the right information," says Marie-José.
This same facilitative approach is reflected in how HeadFirst Group invests in the development of its employees. Not only are you given the tools to do your job well, but you are also given the space to grow as a professional and as a person. 'Learn every day' is therefore more than just a core value on paper. Marie-José, for example, followed the BOS program within HeadFirst Group, which combines personal leadership and consultative selling. "You learn who you are, what your strengths are, and how to convince customers without coming across as pushy," she explains. For her, it is precisely this combination that works: developing yourself in a way that suits you, while helping customers in a way that suits them.
An organization that improves together
What appeals to Marie-José about HeadFirst Group? Our sports initiative: Team HeadFirst Group. This athletic girl is always up for a challenge. Mud Masters, the half marathon of Amsterdam, Hyrox, she has participated in them all with great pleasure (and a little excitement). " To be honest, I found that half marathon quite exciting," she admits. "But because I was running with a large group of colleagues, it immediately felt like one team. In the weeks leading up to it, the coffee machine and lunch breaks were often filled with talk of running paces, carb loading, and all the typical running talk. That created a strong sense of togetherness."
The accessibility of the organization still surprises her. Even at the highest level, colleagues actively contribute ideas. For example, the Group CEO recently helped her with an important client proposal. He had a lot of experience with the client organization and took the time to contribute ideas about tone, content, and approach. For Marie-José, this felt like a perfect example of how flat the organization is: "You can walk into each other's offices, whether it's the CEO or a recruitment colleague who is well informed about the various job profiles."
Business development with attention
Marie-José is far from finished. She builds, connects, and grows, day after day, together with her team. Not by shouting the loudest, but by listening the best. Not by scoring solo, but by winning together.
"The strength lies not in knowing everything yourself, but in bringing together the right expertise," she says with a smile. And that is precisely where her strength lies: being curious, collaborating, daring to ask questions, and bringing the right people with you. That is what makes a good business development manager. And that is exactly why her role is so wonderful.
Will you be Marie-José's new colleague?
Lieke van Lare
"A theater in a corporate setting? That unexpected element is what makes our location unique."
Lieke van Lare | Event Manager
"A brief departure from Leiden." With a wink, Lieke recounts how she chose the Hotel Management School in Leeuwarden, a broad and entrepreneurial program that was perfect for someone who does not enjoy sitting still. After her studies, she discovered her passion for organizing during a marketing internship. From wine fairs to sponsorship activities and major events, Lieke gradually moved closer to the profession that energizes her: event management.
When she started looking specifically for a role in which she could do that fully, she found her place as an event manager at HeadFirst Group.
The first click? The excellent accessibility, the mix of ages, the open culture and, quite frankly, the in-house theater. "How cool is that?" What's more, that theater provides an element of surprise: visitors don't expect to find a full-fledged stage in a corporate environment. That's precisely what makes the location distinctive and every event memorable.
Building from scratch
When Lieke started, she was the first event manager to be hired. There was no quotation process, no fixed supplier structure, and even the location was not yet fully furnished. "There was really nothing in place externally. And then they said: go ahead and build it." That freedom and responsibility made her enthusiastic.
In her first year and a half, Lieke set up a complete event process: from requests and quotes to suppliers, technology, and construction. She now organizes large events, company parties, and inspiring gatherings, both in the theater and at off-site locations. "What I like most is that I've been able to really make my mark. Step by step, you build your own event world within a corporate organization. I still think that's really cool."
HeadFirst Group gave Lieke every opportunity to grow. She took courses in Personal Leadership and Social Hygiene, but learned mainly by doing. The real turning point? That moment when her manager handed over the events to her step by step. At first, they worked side by side, but later, the entire responsibility fell to Lieke. "That really felt like a big leap forward," she says.
“I have felt at home here since day one. Everyone is honest, open, and approachable. And I learn a lot from my colleagues, precisely because not everyone works in events. I really enjoy that.”
Everything tailor-made, everything possible
An event begins with a request. From that moment on, Lieke works out everything step by step: wishes, catering, technology, safety, logistics, and deliveries. "Every customer is different, so I always provide a customized quote. That versatility and proactive approach make our location attractive and distinctive."
That kind of thinking comes naturally. For example, a client wanted a livestream at the last minute. Impossible? Lieke grabbed the camera herself, filmed it, and made sure the content could be shared with colleagues afterwards. No "can't," but rather: what can we do?
What makes the location extra special, says event manager Lieke, is the 180-degree projection screen. This screen creates a unique experience and offers enormous creative possibilities. "At our Dare to Connect event, visual effects transformed the room into a real space experience. A good example of such a memorable moment."
Curious about what's possible or want to get in touch about your own event? Check out our event page and discover all the options.
Diversity in the role of Event Manager
Lieke smiles when she talks about the variety in her work. The difference in clients and content is huge: from beauty brands such as L'Oréal, with inspiring training days and makeup sessions, to governments and social organizations. Internally, it is just as diverse, with freelance and supplier events and company parties where she often has to balance different preferences. She enjoys that challenge: giving everyone a good evening and finding a workable middle ground.
The result? Retention is high, and the number of events increased by 50% last year compared to 2024. Clear confirmation that her approach works.
Work atmosphere at HeadFirst Group
What Lieke perhaps appreciates most is the pleasant working atmosphere within HeadFirst Group. "I've felt at home here since day one. Everyone is honest, open, and approachable. And I learn a lot from my colleagues, precisely because not everyone works in events. I really enjoy that."
Despite her independent role, she feels like an integral part of the team. "I may be a little on the sidelines, but I never feel left out of the group. Everyone knows where to find me, and vice versa." That's why she loves it when colleagues actively involve her in new ideas. "I'm genuinely happy when people tip me off or say, 'Hey, this would be a cool event. Go for it!'"
And that doesn't just apply to current colleagues. Future colleagues and clients are also welcome to come to her with wild plans, unusual ideas, or surprising concepts. Lieke smiles: "If you see something that could be improved, I'd love to hear about it. Together, we can make every future event a little bit better."
A statement that perfectly sums up why Lieke is in the right place at HeadFirst Group, and why theater doors are opening more and more often.
Will you be Lieke's new colleague?
Nienke Peeters
"You are the link between the customer and the organization."
Nienke Peeters | MSP Consultant
Meet Nienke Peeters (27), MSP consultant at HeadFirst Group. After completing her studies in HRM and a master's degree in Communication and Information Sciences, she started working at HeadFirst via a consultancy firm. HeadFirst. She is now a permanent employee and the designated contact person for three municipalities in Drenthe. She is happy to tell you more about her role and why she enjoys it so much and gets so much energy from it.
What does an MSP consultant actually do?
You are the link between clients and suppliers and supervise the entire external hiring process, from request to offboarding. In addition to posting job openings and selecting candidates, you advise clients on strategic hiring issues, such as the Dutch DBA Act, equal pay, and supplier management. Nienke herself describes it as a mix of account management, HRM, and recruitment coordination. "Ultimately, we ensure that the right people end up in the right place."
A typical working day as an MSP consultant
"It's constantly changing," says Nienke. Her day consists of intake interviews, CV selection, scheduling interviews, and advising clients. It is precisely because of this variety that you realize how important it is to know exactly what the client needs. At HeadFirst, you also work with a modern VMS system and data reports, which means you don't just give advice based on gut feeling, but also based on market data and benchmark insights.
"I notice that I am getting better and better at benchmarking profiles and giving sharp advice. Recently, for example, I pointed out similar candidates to the client at a much lower rate. In the end, they chose my advice: the same quality, but at a lower cost." This emphasizes her role as a critical and advisory intermediary between suppliers and clients.
This substantive transition goes hand in hand with the fact that she feels part of two teams. "You are essentially the face of HeadFirst to the client," Nienke explains with a smile. "You get to know the culture, talk to managers on a daily basis, and assist them in finding the right talent." According to Nienke, that is what makes the role so enjoyable. "You are given a lot of freedom to do things your way. And that trust is contagious. It motivates you to improve a little bit every day."
What makes the role of MSP consultant challenging?
"The combination," says Nienke without hesitation. "You have to be structured, but also sociable and communicative. This role isn't just about processes, it's about people." Precisely because she meets so many different professionals, the work remains varied. She also greatly enjoys working with the municipalities. "That down-to-earth, honest way of communicating suits me. It's really nice to come into contact with different environments and people in this way. And it's rewarding to work on projects that really mean something to society."
Growth and support
HeadFirst helps you grow from day one. You are guided by experienced colleagues, and there is always someone there to offer advice or take a look at your work. "That collegial atmosphere is worth its weight in gold. You are never on your own."
That also makes it easy to continue learning. “MSP is something you mainly pick up in practice. And because everyone is so open and engaged, you feel more comfortable asking questions and trying new things.”
Why HeadFirst
For Nienke, the working method is distinctive: open, informal, and collaborative. The freedom you are given fits in well with how she likes to work. "People trust you to take responsibility yourself. That gives you energy."
In addition, you will be working in a large, international HR tech environment: with modern tools, data-driven reporting, hybrid working, lots of customer contact, and opportunities for advancement within an organization that is constantly evolving. "If you are ready for something new or more responsibility, there is often room for that."
“Because everyone is so open and engaged, you feel more comfortable asking questions and trying new things.”
What qualities does an MSP consultant need?
According to Nienke, this role is less about what you have already done and much more about how you work and interact with people.
Important qualities are:
- Maintain an overview and work in a structured manner, even when there is a lot going on;
- Be a strong communicator, so you can easily switch between different stakeholders;
- Being able to think analytically – whether that involves comparing resumes, applications, or reports;
These are skills that many professionals already possess, in their own way. And that is precisely what makes this role accessible and enjoyable: you grow into it naturally, step by step, with plenty of guidance around you.
“Don’t be put off by job titles and lists of requirements,” says Nienke. “If you’re curious and enjoy working with people, you’ll feel at home here sooner than you might expect.”
A message to those who are unsure
"Don't hesitate too long," she says with a smile. "You develop yourself in this role by simply doing it. If you enjoy variety, interacting with different stakeholders, and a bit of a challenge, then this is a great place to grow. Just give it a try. Seriously."
Will you be Nienke's new colleague?
Next Generation at Work
Next generation at work
It was that time again: our annual Next Generation at Work event. An afternoon where work and family come together in Hoofddorp. Children curiously looking around to see where mom or dad is spending all that time. Parents beaming and colleagues seeing each other from a different side. An afternoon like this proves what we consider important as an organization: Connecting people. And how beautiful it is that we don't just say that, but actually live it. That you see that work is not a place of only meetings, laptops and tightly packed agendas. Exactly because we believe that connecting with each other creates value.
Poking around the office
The little ones got a behind-the-scenes look at their parents' work. And it didn't stop at watching.
They dove into an afternoon of activities organized in our own HeadFirst Group theater:
- jumping on a cheerful bouncy castle, with slide of course!
- glitter and color in the face thanks to the make-up table
- get a balloon figure at the tiktok-hype bella balloon
And if that wasn't enough, Stitch walked around giving everyone a hug and taking pictures together. There was also plenty of time to finally show the kids where mom or dad hangs out all day. These tours caused puzzled looks here and there, especially at the desks that can be raised and lowered. Suddenly mom or dad's work seemed less "dusty" than imagined after all.
The beauty of the day: parents proudly shared their workplaces and children saw that work is not just about screens and numbers, but also about fun and cooperation. This provides conversation material for home and bonding for the workplace.
Join
If this day made anything clear, it is that working becomes even more fun when you really know your colleagues. Not just from behind a screen, but in the small moments in between and the conversations that linger. At HeadFirst Group we believe that attention is not an extra, but the standard. If you combine that with a good dose of fun, you get a work environment where you go to every day with meaning.
Do you want to be part of such a club? Dive into the world of HeadFirst Group, discover where you fit right in and find the role that matches your energy, ambitions and talents.
Working at an organization where connection is key?
Changemaker Awards
Together we celebrate change: The Changemaker Awards
HeadFirst Group is all about people who move. Who don't wait, but set something in motion. Who say with a smile, "Let me try." And they do. That mentality is what makes HeadFirst Group special. That's why we have the Changemaker Awards, a moment where we thank colleagues who bring this mentality to life every day. People who show what happens when you dare, share and persevere. This is how our organization shows that initiative is seen and appreciated.
True Changemakers
What makes someone a true changemaker? It goes far beyond simply doing a good job. Our winners are people who dare to make a difference: they push boundaries, show ownership and take steps that produce visible results. They see opportunities where others see barriers and naturally bring others into their energy. All this while remaining human, approachable and sincere, making a lasting impact on those around them.
Celebrating successes
At HeadFirst Group we consciously put colleagues in the spotlight during our four moments, the quarterly meetings and during the Changemaker Awards. These are the moments when we reflect on your efforts, your impact and what your contribution means to the team and the organization. We make sure you get the attention you deserve, because what you do matters. You are seen, appreciated and rewarded. Celebrating success is not an afterthought for us, but a real core value, something that connects us as an organization and moves us forward.
Together we grow further
The first European edition of the Changemaker Awards showcased the qualities of changemakers: people who dare to make a difference, push boundaries, show ownership, achieve results and bring others along with their energy. For this award, colleagues could nominate each other. This way we really show the effort everyone puts into the numerous projects and activities at HeadFirst Group.
Of course there were also prizes: each winner received a beautiful voucher of €500, a tangible token of appreciation that feels like a compliment and a vote of confidence. But the real reward was in the atmosphere of the day itself: the pride, the smiles and, above all, the feeling that your efforts are seen. It is that combination of appreciation, pleasure and confidence that moves us forward every day.
Will you be our next Changemaker?
At HeadFirst Group, you'll help build an organization where human ambition and smart technology reinforce each other. A place where you get room to try, make mistakes, learn and grow. Where initiative and guts are not only noticed, but also rewarded, by colleagues and by the organization. That makes working here not only productive, but also fun, inspiring and above all meaningful.
Working at an organization that values and rewards your hard work?
Jolien de Haan
"HeadFirst not only has a super nice client portfolio, but also a clear mission. I'm proud to share that."
Jolien de Haan | Lead Recruitment Consultant
Don't bullshit but polish, that's the motto of our Lead Recruitment Consultant Jolien. She is married to a sailor who works worldwide for six months a year. This means that Jolien is often alone at home, with two young children. Yet she experiences a fine work-life balance: "Besides my role within HeadFirst, I can also just be a mother, that balance is exactly what makes the work so enjoyable and sustainable."
Working from home? She almost doesn't. Jolien wants to be visible and findable to her team. "Achieving success together requires presence and involvement, with colleagues, stakeholders and clients. That's where energy and results are created."
From Sterksen to HeadFirst
Jolien studied Management and began her career at a start-up. "Super instructive, but I didn't see a career path. I wanted more. To be valuable to an organization, because then an organization is also valuable to me." That's how she ended up in the recruitment field. "You never know," she says with a laugh. But it turned out to be a hit.
In 2020, she started at Sterksen, a label within HeadFirst Group that focuses on various IT recruitment services. "I myself was responsible for W&S.There she grew from medior consultant to senior and eventually team lead. "I was able to take those steps because I was given freedom and felt confident. HeadFirst Group gives you room to grow, as long as you seize opportunities."
From recreational to proactive work
Jolien is not a classic recruiter who only fills vacancies. She is the connector between clients and internal teams, the process improver who turns bottlenecks into solutions, and the tactical advisor who looks ahead. She streamlines processes, sets up consultation structures and ensures that reporting lines are clear. She dives deep into operations, but always keeps the bigger picture in sight. Data plays a major role: with KPIs such as NPS scores and time-to-hire, she manages quality and customer satisfaction.
What drives her? Working from reactive to proactive. Not waiting for a question to come up, but identifying, advising and showing what has already been achieved and where improvement is needed. This is how she builds trust with clients and suppliers. At the same time, Jolien ensures that her team is not drowning in escalations, but has the right information to do the job well. "I find it important to set up tasks in such a way that everyone can be in his or her strength," she says.
Sector Health: moving forward together
Besides Agri and Food sector, Jolien, together with manager Lennert, leads the Health sector since October 1, with several university hospitals and national healthcare institutions as clients . New teams, new systems and ambitious goals. "I started by listening: what is the customer's request for help? Where are the bottlenecks? And how can we get better together?"
She brought structure, lines of consultation and clarity. Not just behind the scenes, but visible to clients and consultants. The result? Measurable progress in the NPS score, a customer satisfaction measure that shows how our services are perceived. In addition, a commitment has been made to continue our services through 2026, and contracts that are now outside the hiring desk will come back to us starting in January. "Those are the moments when you think, yes, that's what we do it for."
An organization that gives energy
At HeadFirst Group, we believe that culture doesn't live on paper, it lives in people. That's why we put colleagues in the spotlight who live up to our values every day. With the Changemaker Awards, we recognize people who push boundaries, show ownership, create impact and stay human. Jolien was one of the colleagues to receive such an award, and that says a lot. "Such recognition gives energy. It shows that initiative is seen and appreciated. HeadFirst is really complimentary: you feel that your efforts matter."
But we do more than celebrate: we listen. Jolien is also committed to the Works Council, an essential link between employees and management. The OR ensures that ideas and concerns are heard and connects our various labels, such as Sterksen, where Jolien comes from, into one strong organization. For Jolien, this is important: "It shows that we are working together toward that one dot on the horizon."
"It's important to me to set up tasks in such a way that everyone can be in their strengths."
For future colleagues
"HeadFirst has a super nice client portfolio. I'm proud to share that. It is an employer with a clear mission: grow, become international, share knowledge. But always with an eye for people. We are professionals with a common goal. And I find that attractive."
For future colleagues, Jolien has a message:
"If you are curious, dare to ask questions and are not afraid to take initiative, the opportunities here are there for the taking."
Will you become Jolien's new colleague?
Brandon Tjong A Hung
"When you come in here, you immediately feel welcome. People are genuinely interested, you get to know each other quickly and you can just be yourself."
Brandon Tjong A Hung | Recruitment Consultant
Five months ago, Brandon walked into HeadFirst Group's building. A new environment with faces and departments he didn't yet know. "I was coming out of a hundred-square-foot office," he laughs. "And suddenly I was in a giant building with hundreds of colleagues. That took some shifting." The first impression? More than good. "It immediately felt as if I had landed in a warm bath." By now he feels completely at home.
A new direction
Brandon began his career in logistics and manufacturing. There he grew from junior recruiter to senior, account manager and eventually business unit manager. Still, it began to itch. "I wanted to move into IT. That seemed fat interesting, but that didn't work out as planned." During his search, he came into contact with corporate recruiter Britt van Heffen. It clicked immediately." Afterwards, it turned out to be a match made in heaven.
The role as a recruitment consultant
The first weeks at HeadFirst Group were intense, but positive. "There was a lot coming at me: new systems, processes, faces. Although this was intense, it also gave me a lot of energy." Brandon noticed right away how well things are organized here. "The processes are tightly organized, which gives peace and overview. This allows you to really focus on what matters: finding the right people."
In his role as a recruitment consultant, Brandon works with clear deadlines and well-organized processes. "The work is manageable because many candidates know how to find our organization themselves," he says. Customer contact also surprised him positively. "The contact with suppliers and freelancers is genuinely nice. Everyone is involved and wants to create something beautiful together."
What Brandon particularly appreciates within his role as a recruiter is the freedom and flexibility in how he can do his job. "We work three days in the office. Is your schedule right? Then you can also work from home in consultation. People here really think along with you." At HeadFirst Group, hybrid working is encouraged, whether at one of the eight locations, at home or wherever you feel comfortable. In this way, the organization wants to contribute to a good work-life balance for all colleagues.
Development and collaboration
At first, Brandon had to get used to all the IT terms. "That took some shifting," he laughs. "But I already had an interest in IT, so that helped. Anyone can make a nice resume these days, but I want to know: can someone actually do it? I've developed that strongly here: I dive into the position myself, research exactly what it entails, ask through and sense whether someone really fits well within the requested role."
Brandon also emphasizes the growth that comes from collaboration within the recruiting team. "By sparring together, I learn not only how to better assess candidates, but also how to best communicate with clients. It's fun outside of work hours, too. "On Fridays we often hang out for drinks and talk about all kinds of things. That makes it fun and strengthens the bond within the team."
Successes to be proud of
Highlights abound. "For example, it was recently announced that we are Alliander's largest supplier. That is, of course, my customer, together with my colleague Melanie de Vries," he says proudly. Suppliers also regularly show that they appreciate your work. "Sometimes you get a card, a lunch or an invitation to an event. The other day we went with some colleagues and supplier Fill You In to Sail Amsterdam. It was a great day and it showed how good the cooperation is, even outside the office." Fill You In recently won the Connected Impact Award at HeadFirst Group's supplier event.
According to Brandon, events like these are real highlights within the organization "There is always something fun: The Dutch Masters, the Amsterdam marathon and soon the Hyrox Company Challenge." This is how the organization wants to show that working at HeadFirst Group is not only about work, but also about having fun and doing things together. This is how the core value connecting people really becomes visible.
"We not only help professionals find a new assignment, but also people who are a little further away from the job market. I really like that, because that way everyone gets a chance."
The strength of HeadFirst Group
What Brandon especially appreciates is that HeadFirst Group looks beyond profits and numbers. "We not only help professionals find a new assignment, but also people who are a little further away from the labor market. I really like that, because that way everyone gets a chance." The atmosphere also appeals to him. "When you come in here, you immediately feel welcome. People are genuinely interested, you get to know each other quickly and you can just be yourself. It's professional, but also cozy." Successes are always celebrated, he says. "Whether it's a placement, a birthday or a colleague getting her diploma, there is always a moment of reflection. That makes it personal and nice to work here."
Will you become Brandon's new colleague?
Sterksen moved
Sterksen moves into 5TRACKS Offices Breda
Sterksen has found a new home in the heart of Breda! Our label has moved to a brand new location: 5TRACKS Offices, right next to Breda Station. A place that excels in accessibility, facilities and sustainability. And that fits perfectly with how we work at HeadFirst Group: with attention to vitality, connection and growth.
Connected work
At HeadFirst Group, we believe that an inspiring work environment contributes to work happiness and performance. 5TRACKS is more than an office, it is a meeting place. The vibrant atrium is the heart of the building: the place for creative sessions, spontaneous meetings, meetings and a good cup of coffee.
At 5TRACKS, you work among people who are just as driven as you are. In the atrium, you exchange knowledge and ideas in a casual manner. Inspiration and motivation guaranteed! And that fits in perfectly with our core value: "Connecting People".
Connection is at the core of our existence. We are curious, show genuine interest in each other and believe that collaboration leads to growth. In an environment like 5TRACKS, where transparency and community are key, that comes into its own.
Sustainable and future-proof
Sustainability is a top priority at HeadFirst Group. As a B Corp-certified organization, we are part of a global movement of companies that have sustainability, ethics and inclusiveness at their core. From carbon reduction to fair working relationships, with us you actively contribute to a fairer, greener and future-proof labor market.
Of course, that includes a sustainable office. The 5TRACKS building was designed with the future in mind: energy efficient and built with sustainable materials. The installations are geared to a healthy indoor climate, so that you are optimally supported in your work. 5TRACKS complies with the WELL certification, an international system that assesses the built environment for elements that influence the health and well-being of people.
A place to make the most of yourself
At HeadFirst Group, we see our work as top sport. That's why we encourage an environment where vitality is key. In the new office you will find everything you need to stay mentally and physically balanced. The adjacent Spoorpark forms the transition between city and railroad. Here you can have lunch outside, walk around with a colleague to talk through a pitch, or move a brainstorming session outside for fresher ideas. In addition, there is a gym and you can eat delicious and healthy food at local restaurants. In short: power enough to always be at your best.
Can you see yourself working at 5TRACKS?
Corporate party Destination Unknown
Destination Unknown
Dare to celebrate
No targets, laptops or meetings for a while, just passports and boarding passes. On September 25, we at HeadFirst Group enjoyed Destination Unknown. A party full of surprises, because working together is fun, but celebrating our successes together is even better!
From the moment you checked into our own HeadFirst Group Theater, you felt it: this was not going to be an ordinary evening. The entire venue had been transformed into a bustling airport, complete with boarding passes, customs checks and gate announcements. This is how we celebrate successes at HeadFirst Group!
Tabitha steals the show
As our "crew" of pilots and flight attendants serve drinks and snacks, the venue transforms into a bustling plane full of energy. The dance floor rises, everyone is on cloud nine and there is no sign of turbulence.
A good party stands or falls with the music. DJ I-Claud kicked off with tasty beats and got everyone on the dance floor in no time. But the real highlight of the evening? That was without a doubt Tabitha. As a surprise act she appeared on stage and turned the HeadFirst Group Theater completely upside down. What. One. Energy. From the first note, she had everyone with her.
After this performance, the DJs of Qmusic The Party took over and we all danced together into the wee hours of the morning.
This is how we build your job satisfaction
You work hard and you celebrate hard, which is exactly what makes us strong. With us, a company party is not just an evening of fun; it is a time to connect, reflect on what we accomplish together and get to know each other better.
A strong work environment starts with you. With the feeling that you are seen and appreciated. Destination Unknown shows what HeadFirst Group is really about: being on the road together towards new goals, projects and successes, with fun, pride and above all with each other.
You may have missed this flight, but go ahead and book your ticket for the next trip. Don't miss the next Destination Unknown and experience for yourself what it's like to fly with HeadFirst Group.
Become part of our team, and dance with us at our next party!
Vitality Week at HeadFirst Group
How we invest in your well-being
Vitality Week | 2025
At HeadFirst Group, we believe that working on vitality goes beyond a background initiative. It is a natural part of our way of working. We want you to feel good about yourself. So that you go to work full of energy and fun. That is why we regularly organize activities that encourage you to consciously deal with your health, energy and well-being.
Our Vitality Week is a good example of this. This week focuses on exercise, mental resilience, healthy nutrition and connection. You sport together with colleagues, learn from inspiring speakers and take time to reflect on what you need to stay well balanced.
Curious about what that looks like in practice? We take you along and show you how this week took shape and what it says about working at HeadFirst Group.
A flying start with Sanne Wevers
The kickoff of our Vitality Week was all about inspiration and mental resilience. For that, we had a special guest: Sanne Wevers. Sanne is among the most successful Dutch gymnasts of all time and made history by becoming the first Dutchman ever to win gold on the balance beam at the Rio 2016 Olympics . She shared her story about focus, perseverance and dealing with pressure. All valuable insights that you can also take into your work and daily life.
During her talk, Sanne took us through her journey as an elite athlete. She spoke candidly about setting goals, dealing with setbacks and pushing boundaries. Themes that are not only relevant in sports, but also in the workplace and in everyday life. For colleagues at HeadFirst Group, her story was extra valuable: it underscored the importance of mental resilience, focus and personal growth. Because those who are well balanced not only get the best out of themselves, but also contribute to a stronger team.
Movement and balance
In addition to inspiring stories, there was also plenty of room for exercise and connection during Vitality Week. During the Walk & Talk with our own receptionist Ellen, colleagues discovered the most beautiful spots in the neighborhood. The perfect way to combine fresh air with nice conversations.
The HYROX workouts with our own account manager Melvin Blaauw also provided plenty of action. From a tough leg day to a challenging upper body workout, everyone was able to participate at their own level. The result? Lots of sweat, smiling faces and a strong team spirit.
Nutrition and vitality
At HeadFirst Group, vitality is not only about exercise and relaxation, but also about reflection and personal growth. In our Open up Masterclass, dietician Roos London guided colleagues in discovering the relationship between emotions and eating behavior. By gaining new insights about personal patterns and learning to apply practical tips, colleagues immediately take something away for their daily lives. This is a great example of our core value Learn Every Day: continuous learning and growth.
Wall of Compliments
During Vitality Week, you could surprise your colleagues with a compliment on the Compliments Wall. A small gesture, but with great effect. At HeadFirst Group we find it important that everyone respects and appreciates each other, because that is the basis for a healthy and pleasant working environment. Here you can count on a place where you are seen, where your ideas count and where positivity and appreciation are a normal part of your working day.