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!
Premier Padel
Colleagues pick up wins at Premier Padel!
Team HeadFirst Group
At HeadFirst Group, we do love a challenge. Therefore, together with the partners of the Topsport Community, we were on the court during Premier Padel Rotterdam, the biggest padel tournament in the Netherlands. Here the best players in the world compete for the title. While the world's best were preparing for their matches in Ahoy, we played our own tournament on a court next door. A unique experience, right in the middle of the atmosphere of top sport. Because just like on the work floor at HeadFirst Group, it's all about cooperation, connecting and getting a little better every day.
In addition to the world's top
While on center court the world's top players, such as Federico Chingotto & Alejandro Galán and Agustín Tapia & Arturo Coello (who eventually went home with the win), were getting ready for matches, we played our own tournament. The atmosphere was there right away: fanatical rallies, lots of smiling faces and plenty of energy on the court. You can tell that the Topsport Community partners have the same mindset as we do at HeadFirst Group.
The finals of our own competition provided spectacle, and it was extra nice to see our colleagues win prizes. They went home with a personalized racket. After playing sports, we had dinner together, laughed and talked afterwards with sports icons such as Pieter van den Hoogenband, Marit Bouwmeester, John van Lottum and Fatima Moreiro de Melo. A perfect mix of sports, connection and fun, just the way we like to see it at Team HeadFirst Group.
Shared elite sports mentality
What made this evening extra special was the top sports mentality that was palpable everywhere. By standing among such inspiring athletes, you realize how important focus, discipline and cooperation are. Values that also make the difference for us. In the aftermovie, our colleague Duco beautifully explains how this top-class sports mentality fits in seamlessly with our growth ambition: getting better together, continuing to learn and taking on new challenges with courage. Whether on the work floor or on the padel court, at HeadFirst Group you always go for the win!
Become part of a team that wants to get better every day, just like in elite sports.
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.
Would you also like to work at an organization where vitality is key?
From desk to obstacle course: colleagues brave Mud Masters
From desk to obstacle course: colleagues brave Mud Masters
Mud Masters 2025 | Haarlemmermeer
Together through the mud: this is how we do it at Team HeadFirst Group
A temperature of 30 degrees, gallons of mud and dozens of obstacles - that may sound like hard work, but for us it was mostly enjoyment. With 37 colleagues from HeadFirst Group we were at the start of Mud Masters Haarlemmermeer 2025. Spread over 6 and 12 kilometers, we braved slippery slopes, crawl tunnels, ice baths and rope constructions. Together. Because at Team HeadFirst Group you don't push boundaries on your own.
Collaborate
This day was about more than just physical challenge. It was about helping, motivating and encouraging each other - exactly what Connecting People, one of our core values, is all about. In our striking Team HeadFirst Group shirts, we dragged each other through the toughest parts. Not for nothing do we say: we dare to win.
Top sportsmanship on and off the job
Besides the sweat and sore muscles, this day provided a lot of energy above all. Energy that we also put into our work. Because within HeadFirst Group we believe that the power of sports - perseverance, team spirit, focus - fits perfectly with the way we work and grow. That is also why we Team HeadFirst Group created: a program that connects colleagues through sports, health and shared experiences.
Also part of HeadFirst Group?
HeadFirst Group present at 9th edition Diversity Dinner
HeadFirst Group present at 9th edition Diversity Dinner
On May 27, we attended the 9th edition of the Diversity Dinnerorganized by Global People, the event where diversity, inclusion and genuine encounters take center stage. In the atmospheric Railway Museum we spoke with young, talented professionals from diverse backgrounds and shared inspiring stories. A unique evening without resumes, but with real connection.
No resume, do a good interview
The evening began with a vibrant job fair, where we interacted with promising professionals from diverse backgrounds. No resumes or application forms, but personal conversations centered on genuine interest. This accessible and human approach breaks down traditional selection barriers and creates valuable connections and insights you don't get from a paper profile.
During the three-course dinner, we were inspired by contributions from Yeliz Çiçek, former editor-in-chief of Vogue Netherlands, and journalist and best-selling author Joris Luyendijk, among others. Both shared their insights on diversity, inclusion and the power of representation. Their stories emphasized the importance of an inclusive society and labor market.
A unique aspect of the Diversity Dinner is the objective matching between candidates and employers. These matches are made based on a competency-driven talent scan from The Selection Lab. This eliminates the subjectivity of the traditional resume and allows candidates to present themselves based on their personality and skills.
Questions about our diversity and inclusion policy?
Within HeadFirst Group, we are committed every day to a working environment where everyone feels welcome, safe and appreciated. Our DE&I Taskforce plays an important role in this. Do you have questions about our approach or ideas to contribute to an inclusive work culture? Feel free to send a message to diversity@headfirst.nl - we like to think along with you!
Do you also want to be part of an organization that is committed to diversity, inclusion and connection every day? Check out our job openings and become part of our team!
Secondary benefits: we raise the bar, for you
Secondary benefits: we set the bar higher, for you
At HeadFirst Group we do things a little differently. We believe that being a good employer starts with real attention for people. That is why we renewed our fringe benefits on January 1. And that is a conscious choice, to makethat we set the bar high. We are proud of our status as Great Place To Work, but even more proud of what you notice in return. Because with us, it's not only about what you bring to the table, but also about what you get in return: flexibility, inclusivenessconnection and the space to grow. Read here what you can can expect from us.
Physically and mentally balanced
Vitality is extremely important to us. Every month you receive a vitality budget that you can spend on whatever gives you energy. Whether that is a sports subscription, yoga class or painting course. At our headquarters in Hoofddorp you will even find our own gym which you can use free of charge.
For your mental health, we have a partnership with OpenUp, which includes 1-on-1 sessions with psychologists, mindfulness training and self-development tools. We make sure you stay strong, resilient and balanced.
Flexibility that moves with your life
Work is not one-size-fits-all. You choose what suits you. For example, you can make use of a mobility budget, with which you decide how you travel - from lease car to NS Business Card or a combination thereof. You also get an Internet allowance and the opportunity to buy or sell vacations. So you put together a package that suits your situation and stage of life.
Appreciation in the big and small things
We value our people not only as professionals, but also as human beings. This is reflected in the little things: a gift on your birthday, a personal card sent to your home, fresh fruit on the shop floor and a healthy lunch at the office at a reduced price. Because we like to celebrate successes together, we regularly organize team outings and events that focus on connection and fun. You can be who you are and celebrate your achievements - together with your team.
Civic engagement and inclusiveness
At HeadFirst Group you get the space to give something back to society. Every year you receive two CSR days with which you can volunteer for a charity that suits you. We also offer you a D&I-day., a day off when you can celebrate a holiday that is important to you, even if it falls outside the traditional Dutch holidays. And for personal milestones, such as a wedding, moving house or the anniversary of a loved one, you get a special day off.
Learning and advancement: your development at the center
Personal development is high on our agenda. Through our own HeadFirst Group Academy you get access to an extensive learning platform with trainings, e-learningsworkshops and coaching. Whether you want to deepen your professional knowledge, work on your soft skills or prepare for the next step in your career: with us you get all the space you need to develop yourself.
Well taken care of, now and later
Finally, we think it is important that you are well insured and can look to the future with confidence. That is why we have a solid pension plan through BeFrankgroup health insurance with attractive discounts and supplementary insurances such as accident insurance and WIA Supplementary insurance. Security is not a luxury, but a natural part of being a good employer.
Ready for a workplace that energizes?
At HeadFirst Group we build a culture where people are at the center. Where there is room for ambition and balance. And where you can really make a difference. VFor yourself, your colleagues and our clients. Take a look at our vacancies and discover if there is a great match: workwith.headfirst.group.
Come work at HeadFirst Group
Do you want to be part of this dynamic organization and contribute to the digital transformation? At HeadFirst Group we are constantly looking for talented people who want to make a difference. Check out our vacancies and discover how you can make a difference within an organization that believes in the power of people.
The critical role of HR in a digital transformation
The crucial role of HR in a digital transformation
With Joke de Graaf, Head of HR & Organization at HeadFirst Group
At HeadFirst Group, we believe that digital transformation is all about people. Technology is changing the way we work, but without the right people and culture, no technology development can make a difference. HR plays a crucial role here. In my daily work, I constantly ask myself the question, "How do we ensure that our employees grow with these changes?" It's not just about implementing tools, but especially about understanding the people who need to use these tools. Because the right mindset and development make anything possible.
People central to digital transformation
The speed of digitization is tremendous. Some are already sprinting ahead, while others still have to get used to the new way of working. At HeadFirst Group, we make sure we support both groups. For the employees who are already further along in their digital journey, we offer learning opportunities and projects that challenge them further. For the others, we have programs that help them feel more comfortable in the digital landscape. In this way, we ensure that no one is left behind and everyone can develop at their own pace.
I believe that HR not only plays a supporting role here, but must also take an active role in building an organization that can move quickly. This means developing the skills of employees at the forefront of digital change, but also the leaders who can guide them through these changes.
Leadership in times of change
It takes a lot from organizations to stay fast and agile in a digital world. The same goes for our leaders. We need them not only to perform well operationally, but also as strategists who can set the organization's course in an unpredictable future. At HeadFirst Group, we develop leadership that focuses on more than just management; it's about the ability to develop vision, inspire teams and lead employees through change.
Our leaders drive the culture of continuous improvement. By hosting regular leadership programs and focusing on agility and inclusiveness, we ensure that our leaders are always ready to take on new challenges and lead employees through change.
How do we build a future-proof organization?
At HeadFirst Group, we think not only about the technology we deploy, but also about the company culture we want to create. In a world that is constantly changing, a flexible and inclusive company culture is essential for success. That's why we invest in programs that promote diversity, because we know that diverse teams drive innovation. For example, we have mentoring and coaching initiatives that help employees from different backgrounds develop.
We also establish workplaces that provide space for personal growth. We do this by offering regular team-building activities and flexible work opportunities, for example, so that everyone feels at his or her best. Because for us, it is essential that work is not only productive, but also enjoyable and inspiring.
Making a difference as HR leaders
As HR leaders, we have a responsibility not only to react to the changes that are upon us, but to actively drive the direction we want to go. This means not only guiding and supporting, but also building and implementing. It is up to us to create the right environment where talent can flourish, where employees feel supported in their digital growth, and where everyone feels valued.
At HeadFirst Group, we believe that people will always remain the greatest differentiator, even in the midst of technological advances. And as HR, our job is to create an environment where employees can develop and make the most of their talents.
Come work at HeadFirst Group
Do you want to be part of this dynamic organization and contribute to the digital transformation? At HeadFirst Group we are constantly looking for talented people who want to make a difference. Check out our vacancies and discover how you can make a difference within an organization that believes in the power of people.
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.
Davy van den Berg at HeadFirst Group on top sports and Ramadan
Davy van den Berg on top sports, faith and Ramadan at HeadFirst Group
At HeadFirst Group, we believe in the power of diversity and the importance of understanding different cultures and traditions. Seeing the world through the eyes of others expands your perspective, strengthens our interconnectedness and creates an inclusive work environment.
With this in mind, we organized an Iftar March 13, where colleagues came together to break the fast during Ramadan. Davy van den Berg, captain of premier league club PEC-Zwolle was present to give his insight on top sports and Ramadan.
PEC Zwolle captain Davy van den Berg shares his experience
As an elite athlete, Ramadan requires extra discipline and adaptability. Davy van den Berg shared his personal experience about his conversion to Islam and how he deals with fasting as a professional soccer player. He explained how he maintains his energy level and how his club supports him in this. A unique insight into the combination of top sports and faith, where physical and mental strength go hand in hand.
In addition to Davy's inspiring words, Imam Mohamed Abdulahi gave an engaging explanation of the meaning of Ramadan and the core values within Islam. Colleagues then tested their knowledge in an interactive Ramadan quiz, with the winner going home with an autographed shirt from Davy van den Berg.
After the inspiring stories, it was time to enjoy a traditional Iftar meal together. Top sport is all about teamwork, and this evening was no different. Colleagues - even from Belgium - came together, shared experiences and learned more about each other's backgrounds.
"Society is changing, and there is now more attention to athletes participating in Ramadan. At PEC Zwolle, fasting players can sleep longer and retire, while for the past two years the KNVB has stopped matches briefly at sunset so players can eat and drink."
Be part of HeadFirst Group?
This initiative came directly from our colleagues and was enthusiastically supported by the DE&I task force. A great example of how we at HeadFirst Group bring our core values of Learn everyday and Connecting people to life!
At HeadFirst Group, working is not only about performance, but also about growing together, connecting and gaining new experiences. Initiatives like this Iftar show that we are an organization where everyone can be themselves and where there is room for diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Would you also like to work at an organization where inclusiveness and connection are key? Take a look at our vacancies and become part of our team!
HeadFirst Group is a Best Workplace™ for Women
HeadFirst Group is a Best Workplace™ for Women
Great Place To Work publishes list of best employers for women for the second time
Following the success of 2024, Great Place To Work has added to its annual list of best employers in the Netherlands the Best Workplaces for Women 2025 announced. This list is unique in the Netherlands and we are proud to share that HeadFirst Group ended up in 4th place in the Mid Large category. A great recognition for our work environment in which we give women room to grow and develop.
Closing wage gaps, breaking glass ceilings
Is an award for the "best workplaces for women" anno 2025 still necessary? The answer is: yes, absolutely. Despite the fact that women in the Netherlands are fully participating in the labor market, they (still) more often work part-time, in lower-paid sectors, and unjustifiably receive lower pay within the same sectors and positions.
Companies on the Best Workplaces for Women list are more successful than the national average: 96% of women feel they are treated fairly, compared to 84% nationally. Women also stay employed longer (82% vs. 67%).
This list highlights that gender equality is not an empty concept, but really works. Organizations on the list prove that inclusive policies lead to greater connection, better collaboration and impact.
How did we get on the list and what does it mean for us?
Great Place to Work compiles the list based on several key criteria:
- The number of women within the organization must equal or exceed the CBS industry benchmark.
- At least 33% of executives must be women - in our case it is even 50%!
- There must be at least one woman in senior management.
- Female colleagues must give the organization a Trust Index score of at least 70%.
We are extremely proud of this achievement, but we are not there yet! An inclusive workplace is not a final destination, but an ongoing movement. We remain committed to equal opportunity, diverse leadership and a work environment that always puts talent first.
Thank you to everyone who contributes to this. Together we make HeadFirst Group a place where everyone feels at home!
Also want to be a part of our beautiful organization? We have some great job openings!