HeadFirst Group again a Great Place To Work - and more!
HeadFirst Group again a Great Place To Work - and more!
Triple recognition: HeadFirst Group continues to grow as a top employer
For the third year in a row, HeadFirst Group may call itself a Great Place To Work to work! And it doesn't stop there: this year we are also on the list of Best Workplaces and are recognized as the Best Workplaces for Women.
"This is a wonderful confirmation of the culture we have built together with our colleagues," says Joke de Graaf, Director People & Culture. "We continue to grow as an employer, and we see that reflected in the results."
A work environment where everyone can grow
At HeadFirst Group, we are constantly looking at how we as an organization stay future-proof, by improving our services, making the organization more efficient and developing strong leadership. At the same time, not only our successes are key, but also the colleagues who make them possible. That is why we actively listen to our people and translate their feedback into concrete improvements. In this way, we continue to create a working environment in which people can grow and excel," says Joke.
For example, we have:
- Secondary benefits revamped to allow employees flexible and uniform benefits of their own choosing.
- Promoted job satisfaction by celebrating successes and organizing events such as MudMasters, the Dam to Dam run and the annual padel tournament.
- Introduced a common onboarding for all labels so that new colleagues feel at home faster.
"This year we celebrated our Great Place To Work certification in a unique way: with a breathing session and an ice bath challenge. Colleagues were challenged to step out of their comfort zone and push their limits, both physically and mentally. This fits perfectly with our vision of vitality and the power of a positive mindset."
Diversity, trust and job satisfaction
"It is crucial for us to listen to our colleagues. The input from the annual Great Place To Work survey gives us concrete tools to become an even better employer," Joke explains. "This survey uses the Trust Index to measure how employees experience trust, pride and job satisfaction. This year we achieved a score of 77%!".
Among other things, the survey shows that employees feel valued, see the impact of their work more clearly and consider our working conditions unique. In addition, 94% of our employees report feeling fully themselves in the workplace.
"We are now also recognized as Best Workplaces for Women and are ranked #4 in the Mid Large category. The title Best Workplaces for Women is not just recognition. It shows that we create a work environment where everyone feels seen, valued and encouraged to grow, regardless of gender. We are actively committed to diversity and inclusion, and it shows in our organization," adds Joke.
- 50% of our executives are women (well above the 33% average)
- Our senior management is diverse
- Our female colleagues rate us with a Trust Index score of at least 70%
Vitality and job satisfaction central
HeadFirst Group is strongly committed to vitality. A good example is Team HeadFirst Group, an initiative in which sports and a top sports mentality are central.
Says Joke, "We regularly organize events, foursomes and knowledge sessions to inspire and bring colleagues together. This mindset not only helps employees become physically and mentally stronger, but also strengthens cooperation, perseverance and a positive mindset in the workplace."
We also encourage well-being with:
- A vitality budget for personal health and development.
- Access to OpenUp, a mental support platform.
- Flexible working hours to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
All this contributes to a culture where performance, well-being and job satisfaction go hand in hand.
Do you want to work at an organization where your opinion counts and where you make a real impact? Check out our vacancies.
Celebrating Diversity Day at HeadFirst Group
Celebrating Diversity Day at HeadFirst Group: A step toward a more inclusive workplace
On Oct. 1, we at HeadFirst Group celebrated Diversity Day, a day created in the Netherlands to promote and celebrate diversity in the workplace and in society. During this day, organizations across the country highlight the importance of inclusion and the unique qualities each individual brings.
At HeadFirst Group, we invited author and speaker Dilara Bilgiç to give us deeper insight into prejudice and its impact within society. During her inspiring session, Dilara brought us closer to an inclusive work culture by making us aware of unconscious biases and how they affect us on a daily basis. Her message aligned perfectly with HeadFirst Group's values: creating a safe working environment where everyone feels valued.
Diversity Day at HeadFirst Group is more than just a day; it reflects our commitment to a workplace where diversity is celebrated and inclusion is central. We believe that by talking openly and honestly about such issues, together we can make a positive and impactful contribution to society. We are constantly working to strengthen our inclusive workplace culture and look forward to welcoming talents who are also committed to a respectful and diverse workplace.
Do you want to be part of an organization that actively promotes diversity and inclusion? Then check out our vacancies and discover your career opportunities at HeadFirst Group.
Working together for health and well-being
Working together for health and well-being
At HeadFirst Group it's not only about hard work, but also about the well-being of our colleagues. The end of September marked Vitality Week 2024, a week full of inspiring activities that boosted health and well-being within our organization. From daily active exercise to healthy eating - it was a week in which we worked together to create a fit and vital work environment.
The highlights of Vitality Week
Our Vitality Week had many highlights, but one activity really stood out: the StepUp Challenge. This challenge got us moving, with a competition to take as many steps as possible. Else Krijgsman emerged as the winner with an impressive 90,626 steps! Yasir Toker and Frederik Walraven finished in second and third place with 90,451 and 87,550 steps, respectively. A great achievement that shows how enthusiastic our colleagues were.
But Vitality Week had even more in store:
- Guided Lunch Walks: Every day our colleagues enjoyed guided walks during lunch. Get away from the office and into the fresh outdoors for a relaxing moment to refuel.
- Sports sessions by Kika Vermeulen: Led by Kika Vermeulen, we reflected on the importance of exercise. Kika's sessions not only provided a physical challenge, but also raised awareness about how important it is to stay fit, even in the office.
- Healthy food from caterer LEO: Healthy eating was a major theme this week. Our caterer LEO served responsible dishes that fit well with a week of vitality. Even the fryer stayed out on Friday!
A powerful boost for collaboration and energy
Vitality Week 2024 showed how nice it is to work together on health and energy. The commitment of our colleagues, the enthusiasm at the activities and the focus on exercise and healthy eating are part of our aim to make HeadFirst Group not only a great place to work, but also a place where well-being is central.
Are you looking for a job with an organization that takes wellness seriously? Where there is attention not only for professional growth, but also for a healthy lifestyle? Then check out our vacancies and come discover how you can become part of HeadFirst Group!
Marian van Duijn and Hein de Rooi
"Because we are so closely involved in various processes within the company, we really feel the impact of our work."
At the Servicedesk of HeadFirst Group, people work every day with great pleasure and dedication to support our clients as well as possible. But what makes working at the Servicedesk so special? Hein de Rooi, team leader of the Servicedesk, and Marian van Duijn, an experienced team member who has been working at HeadFirst Group for over 21 years, tell you more.
The hub of the organization
The Servicedesk is more than just a department; it is the hub of our organization. As the first point of contact for clients and colleagues, the Servicedesk plays a crucial role in the functioning of HeadFirst Group. Hein says: "Our team has a very central role in the organization. Every day questions come in about almost everything that happens at Headfirst, we take care of quick follow-up of these questions and problems. This makes our work not only essential, but also very dynamic."
Marian adds: "Because we are so closely involved in various processes within the company, we really feel the impact of our work. We get a lot of what is going on and are often the first to notice when something changes. That gives our work an extra dimension and ensures that we always stay sharp and involved."
A team with a mission
Hein, who has led the team since December 2020, says, "My role is mainly about facilitating the team so that they can do their job as well as possible. It's about making sure the working conditions are optimal, so that everyone can fully focus on the customers." Marian adds: "The most important thing is that we are well matched as a team. We often work with a small team, and then it's important that you can rely on each other. That makes our work dynamic and challenging, but also a lot of fun."
A dynamic work environment
Marian talks about her long career at HeadFirst Group and how the organization has changed over the years, "When I started, we were a much smaller organization. Since then we have grown considerably and that brings new challenges. But that is precisely what makes it so interesting. There is always something new to learn and discover." Hein emphasizes the variety in the work: "The nice thing about the Service Desk is that you have to deal with all kinds of different questions. No day is the same, and you constantly have to switch gears and think creatively to find solutions."
A close-knit team
Working at the Service Desk requires good cooperation and communication within the team. Hein explains: "We have a close-knit team where everyone gets the space to voice their opinions. We appreciate it when team members come up with new ideas and actively think about how we can do things better. That keeps us on our toes and ensures that we continue to grow as a team."
Challenges and highlights
Of course, there are challenges, too. "Sometimes it's busy, and then you really have to put your shoulders to the wheel as a team," says Marian. "But that also gives a lot of satisfaction. When we look back at the end of a busy day and see that together we were able to help so many customers well, it really feels like a victory."
Hein adds, "The best thing about this work is that you can really make a difference. Whether it's a customer helping you with a simple question or someone who is really frustrated and not getting anywhere, it gives a good feeling when you can help someone further and that person hangs up the phone satisfied."
Why work at HeadFirst Group's Servicedesk?
When asked what makes working at HeadFirst Group's Service Desk so much fun, Marian replied, "The contact with people and the variation in the work make every day different. In addition, the atmosphere within our team is just really good. We have fun together, but also work hard to achieve our goals."
Hein concludes, "If you like a dynamic work environment where no day is the same, and you enjoy helping people, HeadFirst Group's Service Desk is the perfect place for you."
Also excited to get started at HeadFirst Group? Click here for the vacancies!
HFG Foundation: working together for a better world
HFG Foundation: working together for a better world
HeadFirst Group is committed to a better world beyond the job market. We are committed to improving the environment, nature and the lives of people around the world. One way we do this is with the HeadFirst Group Foundation, with activities aimed at helping people in their careers and in life.
In addition, we at HeadFirst Group are proud of our colleagues who dedicate themselves to society and social initiatives. Therefore, the HFG Foundation has made a donation to Stichting Jongeren Op Kamp (SJOK), in which our colleague Sem Overduin is actively involved. SJOK has been organizing affordable vacation weeks for young people with mental and/or physical disabilities since 1995. Sem helps organize these camps, which provide valuable experiences for a diverse group of participants.
The vacation weeks include activities such as swimming, sports and game activities and shopping. Wondering what this looks like? See some photos from last week here. It was another successful vacation for everyone who attended!
Want to become part of an organization that is also committed to a better world. Then come and meet HeadFirst Group. Check out our vacancies here.
Karin Brizar
Personal approach in serving clients
With an impressive track record of 17 years, Karin Brizar, the Head of Operations, has earned her spurs at HeadFirst Group. A long time ago Karin started at FastFlex, but after several acquisitions she still feels like a fish in the water at HeadFirst Group after all these years.
The essence of her role
In simple terms, as Karin herself would put it, my department is "The hub of the organization." Her responsibilities include contract management and payroll, but her role extends beyond that. She ensures that HeadFirst Group's product of seamless external hiring for clients is taken care of to perfection.
Her mission is to ensure that all parties are satisfied, by providing clients and freelancers with the right information and acting as a reliable knowledge partner. The most enjoyable aspect of her job? The constant contact with a diverse group of people.
The secret of her team
Karin's team is her pride and joy. With nearly 30 full-timers and a nice mix of men and women. What makes it distinctive, according to Karin, is not only the diversity in age, but also the variation in personalities. The stability of the team is remarkable; the relationships between them have grown stronger and stronger.
Proud of progress
The past five years at HeadFirst Group have of course seen remarkable growth. Karin herself is very proud to be part of that development. "We have grown very large in recent years, growing with us and embracing the change I find that very beautiful. I am proud that I have been able to adapt and develop myself to go along with this change," Karin said.
These developments, despite the many years, of course, never make her job boring. Karin sees the constant change as a nice challenge on her personal development. She also praises and emphasizes the importance of adaptability within the team, especially given the company's rapidly changing environment.
With better and faster systems on the horizon, Karin is determined to maintain a personal approach in serving clients. She sees plenty of opportunities to take HeadFirst Group to new heights, with a focus on continuous improvement and client focus. For example, she states, "We have recently received better and better appreciation from our clients. We have worked hard on this for years and it is now paying off. I am proud that we have all managed to achieve this."
Job satisfaction at HeadFirst Group
What makes HeadFirst Group a great place to work? Karin describes it as a warm bath, where employees are embraced and encouraged to be the best they can be. The informal atmosphere, excellent facilities and emphasis on fun make it a unique workplace. At HeadFirst Group, it's not just about the work, but also about celebrating successes and continuing to invest in personal growth. "All this may sound a bit cliché, but it really does feel that way. A warm bath, where you are encouraged to get the most out of yourself."
Also excited to get started at HeadFirst Group? Click here for the vacancies!
Monthly drinks at HeadFirst Group: together you celebrate more!
Monthly drinks at HeadFirst Group: together you celebrate more!
At HeadFirst Group, connection is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in celebrating special moments together, taking care of each other and always being ready to help each other when needed. One of the ways we strengthen that connection is through our monthly get-together, which time after time guarantees fun, creativity and most importantly: being together!
Every month a different team gets the honor of organizing the get-together, and this is always accompanied by a surprising theme. This year we have already had some get-togethers, all of which have proved memorable.
Spring vibes and royal charm
The Service Desk team kicked off the year with spring drinks, complete with a merry bingo. The enthusiasm with which the bingo cards were filled out, and the happy faces when winning prizes, showed how fun and connecting a simple game can be.
During the week of King's Day, we couldn't avoid the theme. It was time for the Kings & Queens get-together. The bar was draped in orange and many a colleague had pulled out the orange outfit.
Sporting challenges and traditional Dutch hospitality
Not long after, we imagined ourselves in a typically Dutch atmosphere during the 'Ik hou van Holland' drinks. With delicious snacks and a quiz full of Dutch facts.
With the Olympics on the agenda, HR organized the Olympic ping pong tournament. Colleagues were able to show their sporting talents. People played fanatically, but also laughed a lot.
In August, of course, many colleagues were enjoying a wonderful vacation. With the colleagues who were working, we celebrated the summer with the summer drink. On the roof terrace there were small pools, water guns and summer drinks ready.
Having drinks together: a moment of connection
At HeadFirst Group, our monthly get-together is about more than just drinks and snacks. It is a moment of connection, where we take a moment to reflect on what connects us as a team. We get to know each other better outside the workplace, discover new talents and strengthen our bonds.
Would you like to become part of an organization where connection is key and where job satisfaction goes hand in hand with performance? Then come and meet HeadFirst Group. Check out our vacancies here.
Music connects beyond the workplace at HeadFirst Group
Music connects beyond the workplace at Headfirst Group
At HeadFirst Group, "Connecting People" is not just a core value, it is the foundation of our culture and everything we do. We believe that true connection happens through personal interaction and sharing experiences, both in the workplace and beyond.
Personal interaction
Connection starts with personal contact. A conversation in person or via (video) call is always better than an email. Participating in, or better yet, initiating social activities, helps us further strengthen this connection.
Music events: connection outside of work
Because connection does not stop when the working day ends, at HeadFirst Group we regularly organize social activities such as get-togethers and parties. We also offer our colleagues the chance to enjoy music events together. This year, for example, several colleagues enjoyed concerts by P!NK, Joel Borelli, Taylor Swift and Amsterdam Summer. These events provide an excellent opportunity to connect with each other outside the work context and create shared memories.
At HeadFirst Group, we are all about connection. By encouraging personal interactions and creating shared experiences both on and off the job, we strengthen the bond between colleagues. Join our team and experience how we at HeadFirst Group bring "Connecting People" to life, every day.
HeadFirst Group headquarters in Hoofddorp
HeadFirst Group headquarters in Hoofddorp
At HeadFirst Group, we believe that an inspiring work environment is essential for stimulating innovation and creating a positive work culture. Located in Hoofddorp, near Amsterdam, our headquarters offers an inspiring space where connection is key. Here we want to strengthen our leading position as an HR-tech service provider and underline our sustainability ambitions.
Location
Our headquarters are located in Office Park 20|20 in Hoofddorp, just 1 km from the A4 motorway and 400 meters from Hoofddorp train station. With an area of 3,700 square meters, our office offers:
- A 1,500-square-foot theater, bar, restaurant and gym on the ground and second floors.
- Office space of 2,200 square feet, distributed on the second through fourth floors.
- 150 (flex) workstations with adjustable desks.
Facilities
Our office is equipped with various amenities to provide an optimal working environment:
- A theater with space for five hundred guests, ideal for presentations and events.
- A bar where colleagues can connect and celebrate successes.
- A restaurant with a barista, serving healthy and sustainable meals.
- A gym with fifteen Technogym machines.
- Seventeen meeting rooms with modern facilities for hybrid conferencing.
- Three coffee corners.
Sustainability
At HeadFirst Group, we strive to minimize our carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable world. Our office was built with sustainability in mind and features:
- A cradle-to-cradle building with energy label A and a BREEAM-NL certificate "Very Good.
- Smart blue-green roofs for rainwater harvesting, which is used for flushing toilets, among other things.
- A gray water recycling system.
- Green electricity from Greenchoice and carbon-neutral flooring from Interface.
- Our caterer, Leo Love Good Food, is committed to reducing environmental impact by choosing sustainable products whenever possible.
- Cleaning of our facilities is done with cold water and ecological cleaning agents.
At HeadFirst Group, we strive to provide an inspiring and sustainable work environment for our employees and visitors. If you're looking for a company that values innovation, connection and sustainability, you've come to the right place. View our vacancies here or contact us.
New website and branding Striive
New website and branding Striive
We proudly launched Striive's brand new website and branding. Striive helps professionals find new challenges, supports suppliers in matching assignments with their talent and assists clients in their search for the best candidates. The platform is revolutionary in ease of use and uniquely uses artificial intelligence (AI) to connect supply and demand. In addition, Striive offers innovative services to fully support professionals in their entrepreneurship.
Connector between tech and touch
HeadFirst Group believes in - and fights for - a fair, open labor market where technology and human touch go hand in hand. In this "next world of work," Striive takes the position of excellent connector. Every year, the platform brings together more than twenty thousand assignments at over five hundred leading organizations in one place. In doing so, it provides easily accessible new career opportunities for professionals, self-employed or employed by suppliers.
Mattijs Wassenburg, Managing Director Digital at HeadFirst Group, explains: "Our goal with Striive is to make all assignments in the market available in one online place for all professionals, regardless of contract form. Ease of use is hugely important in this regard. We rebuilt the platform from the ground up, based on thousands of reviews, user interviews and data analysis. Independent professionals and suppliers on our platform have four primary needs: 1) challenging assignments with reputable clients, 2) minimal red tape, 3) prompt payment of invoices, and 4) personal contact when they want it. Striive fulfills the first three needs, giving my colleagues more time for the fourth: the human touch."
Are you ready to be part of the "next world of work"? Discover the opportunities at HeadFirst Group and view our job openings here.