Our new brand identity
Onze nieuwe brand identity: een frisse start voor een gedurfde toekomst!
At HeadFirst Group, we not only nurture a bold ambition; we have a mission. Our goal? To create a labor market that is fair and transparent, where we make a difference. But that's not all. We strive for an international appeal that positions us as a leading HR tech service provider and the digital platform, with the perfect balance between cutting-edge technology and human interaction.
That's why we have a brand new brand identity! This renewal is not just a visual makeover, but also a powerful message that highlights our forward-thinking approach, the human factor and our technological focus. We embrace our role as an innovative and modern tech-driven organization, ready to embrace the future.
Continue to develop yourself at Sterksen
Continue to develop yourself at Sterksen
She has now been working at this growing company for almost 10 years, but Julianne Maas is far from bored with Sterksen. Having done several jobs, she still finds challenges in her work. We talked to Julianne about her development within Sterksen.
How did you get started at Sterksen?
"This is my first job, making me the prime example of advancing within an organization: starting at the bottom, to eventually a management position. I started as a Recruitment Consultant, which I did for about 3 years. Then I started combining recruitment with a lead function. Then I became responsible for this Business Unit and now I am part of the Management Team.
My current position is Business Unit Manager IT Recruitment & Executive Search. I am responsible for IT Recruitment (W&S) and Executive Search within a wide variety of clients. Within W&S we focus on the permanent recruitment of IT professionals and in Executive Search we focus on filling crucial senior and management positions (also non-IT). So it's incredibly diverse and challenging."
What makes you love working here so much?
"No day is the same, there is always a lot happening. Sterksen is a very entrepreneurial organization that likes to think out of the box. There are therefore continuous developments going on here. New initiatives or business lines ensure that you stay challenged. There is always an opportunity to specialize in a field or to develop yourself further in your career.
It feels like a small company here, but every day you can walk into larger companies we work with. So you get to many different places. Even now that we are part of a larger organization with HeadFirst Group, there are just more opportunities to enter new companies. We strengthen each other."
"There are always opportunities to develop here."
How is cooperation with the team?
"We set the bar high within Sterksen and want to continuously improve ourselves. Quality is very important to us, but in doing so we make sure we strike the right balance. There is little hierarchy and we do it together. For example, we have a buddy system where you can spar with each other or help out when necessary. Many recruitment agencies work in a more individualistic way.
So it is a very professional organization, but we interact informally. The teams are close and the atmosphere is friendly. We celebrate successes together. All kinds of initiatives are also organized among colleagues, from an evening of sports to drinks or festive activities."
Where do you see growth opportunities for yourself?
"As Business Unit Manager, I feel responsible not only for my own business unit, but ultimately for all of Sterksen. My focus now is on how we can create even better cooperation within the business units. Being one Sterksen together, instead of each unit working on its own. So I'm looking for challenge across the entire organization: to maximize the connectedness, also in the cooperation with HeadFirst Group. After all, with our extensive range of services and many specialists, we are the partner for recruitment."
Would you also like to work at this versatile company with a lot of growth potential? Then take a look at our vacancies to see what positions are currently available.
Getting a little better every day
Getting a little better every day, both as an organization and as individuals, is what we strive for
Joke talks about the ambitions of HeadFirst Group
HeadFirst Group has received the certification of a 'Great Place To Work' for the second year in a row. "We have grown on all fronts compared to last year, thanks in part to the commitment of all teams to address areas for improvement and that has paid off," says Joke de Graaf, Head of HR & Organization.
Why is certification so important to HeadFirst Group?
"Listening to our employees is the essence of our organization. Their input is invaluable to us and central to our efforts to be an excellent employer. We can say we are a good employer, but with this certificate we can really demonstrate this and communicate what employees experience and feel. What makes this survey very valuable is that it provides us with concrete tools to continue to improve. The independent employee survey uses the Trust Index to measure trust, pride and pleasure. Themes that are very important to us."
"The survey shows that employees feel the same way. Everyone feels welcome, at home and appreciated, with the freedom to be themselves, regardless of gender, origin or age. On that last theme we even achieve a score of almost 100, how nice is that!"
What has improved from last year?
"Last year we took a close look at onboarding and adjusted it based on feedback from new colleagues. We looked at what went well, but especially what they missed. And we noticed that those adjustments had an effect."
"In addition, we have worked on communication. With us there is no rigid hierarchy, but rather bottom-up leadership. Of course there are issues that are discussed first in the MT, but communication to the teams could be better. Therefore, together with the marketing and communications team and management, we discussed how to improve this so that the teams are even better informed about what is going on."
What are you most proud of within HeadFirst Group?
"Mutual trust is important to us and we like to give employees the freedom to do their jobs. Making mistakes is allowed and is of course part of the job. That is why 'Learn every day' is one of our core values. It is positive that the survey shows that employees are innovative and try to do things in an innovative and better way. Getting a little better every day, both as an organization and as individuals, is what we strive for."
"I like to see that, despite the growth we have experienced and continue to experience, the employees indicate that everyone is approachable, and we are able to maintain the open and accessible culture . That's what made us great and that's what we continue to maintain."
What will you be working on in the coming year?
"Although technology is our strength, we are a people company. That's why one of the spearheads is innovation. We are going to investigate how we can use technology better, so that repetitive tasks can be automated and we have even more time for personal contact with our partners and colleagues. At HeadFirst Group, employees are given the freedom and responsibility to get started themselves when they have a good idea. Using technology in the right way creates space for creativity and new ideas."
Would you like to experience working at a Great Place To Work for yourself? Take a look at our vacancies and find the position that suits you perfectly. Want to know more about HeadFirst Group as an employer or a vacancy? Please contact Charlie Windhorst, our Corporate Recruiter on 06 - 36304235 or werkenbij@headfirst.group. We like to think along with you!
"At Sterksen, it's about much more than work - the most important thing is fun."
"At Sterksen, it's about much more than work - the most important thing is fun."
As a recent graduate, it's always a bit of a search for the next step. What are you going to do when all options are open? For Amber Lambregts, a great opportunity came her way: to continue working at the same organization where she did her graduation project. Below you can read how she came to this choice and what she thinks of it so far.
How did you end up at Sterksen?
"I was approached by a fellow student of mine. He told me about the nice atmosphere and the possibilities available. Soon I was at the front door of the monumental building in Breda. During my intake interview and application process, I became very excited to complete my graduation project at Sterksen. Now since last summer I have graduated and am in permanent employment at Sterksen."
What made you stay?
"I got a good picture of the organization during my internship. My graduation project consisted of researching how the different business units within Sterksen could work better together. My colleagues were very helpful and involved, allowing me to apply research methods such as focus groups and a Sterksen (world) café.
The nice thing about this was that as a result, many steps had already been taken by the colleagues themselves to strengthen cooperation. For example, different business units sought each other out more often and involved each other more in ongoing projects. The fact that everyone is listened to, there is a lot of room for personal input, and of course the great colleagues have ensured that I stayed on after my studies. The many fun outings organized to enjoy together besides work also contribute to this. "
What does your role now look like within Sterksen?
"I stepped into the role of corporate recruiter. My colleagues within Sterksen are an expert in the recruitment field, so I find it very instructive to get started here and gain experience. However, I did want to find colleagues for our own organization so that I stay in touch with HR. I really like it so far and am very much in place within Sterksen. Everyone is extremely helpful and there is room to make mistakes. That is especially nice for me - as a newcomer to the job market. After all, I expect to learn a lot here and develop myself as a professional."
Would you like to join the Sterksen team? Then take a look among our vacancies.
Join the next world of work
Join the next world of work
The next world of work - a theme that indicates how advanced technologies are reshaping the way we work. We are currently in a world where technological advances and human connectivity are increasingly important. As an HR-tech service provider, our ambition is to lead the journey into this new world of work.
This includes an appropriate digital roadmap of technological innovations. Therefore, last year several projects were launched to shape this progress. In our inspiring live tech event "Up Next," we provide quarterly updates on the projects currently in full swing. The third edition of Up Next was marked by the completion of several projects and thus the going live of new platforms and systems, focusing on the customer experience.
So we were taken through the process of implementing improvements in various systems, based on the Kaizen method. Even good processes can be made even better. But how can we specifically improve our services? This became concrete in the explanation of the customer journey. With certain tools we gain insight into the entire customer experience. The foundation of the customer experience is set.
It also highlighted a special moment we are now moving into. Indeed, with the launch of our new platform Striive, our digital strategy is taking concrete form. This is not about the platform itself, but what it can solve for the user. A platform like this can create a lot of added value. With our Partners & Professionals services, for example, we make complex technology seem easy. And that is precisely what we want to create for our users: convenience!
Do you also want to make a difference in the new world of work? Then take a look at our vacancies for all open positions within HeadFirst Group.
Podcast Interview with Marion van Happen, CEO of HeadFirst Group: Balancing career, family and me-time
Podcast Interview with Marion van Happen, CEO of HeadFirst Group: Balancing career, family
As a working mother, you know that finding the right balance between career, family life and personal time can be an ongoing challenge. It is inspiring to learn from successful women who manage to achieve this balance admirably. In a podcast episode by Danja Lekkerkerk, our CEO Marion van Happen was recently interviewed. Together they discussed her impressive career and how she combines it harmoniously with her private life.
This episode offers an intimate look into Marion's life and is packed with valuable insights about achieving a successful career as a woman, balancing work and personal life, ambition, family life and the importance of personal time. Here are some key lessons learned from Marion:
1. The Art of Balancing: Marion reveals how she manages to combine her top corporate position with her family and personal time. She explains how she consciously makes time for every aspect of her life.
2. Energy Management: As a versatile woman with various responsibilities, Marion shares her secrets for effective energy management. She shows how she divides her energy between her various roles.
3. Dealing with challenges: Marion discusses the challenges she faces and how she overcomes them. Her resilience and determination are inspiring to any working mother.
In addition, Marion shares valuable career tips, including the importance of clear positioning, expanding your network in a friendly way, inspirational leadership and communication styles best avoided as a woman.
Marion van Happen is an inspiring example of a woman who leads her career and personal life in a balanced way. Her story shows that it is possible to be successful in both business and motherhood. Want to learn more about Marion's journey and the insights she shares? Then listen to episode number 48 of Danja's podcast at this link.
Our works council was born!
Our works council was born!
At HeadFirst Group, we have experienced remarkable growth in recent years. Our "family" has grown to over 450 colleagues, and with this growth it became clear that it was time for an important new step: the establishment of a Works Council (OR).
An exciting election day
When we made the announcement that we wanted to form an OR, we were overwhelmed by the response. Several colleagues applied to become members. This enthusiasm showed that our employees are strongly committed to our organization and willing to actively contribute to its future. An exciting election day followed, with a large proportion of our colleagues casting their votes. In the end, nine members were elected to represent our organization.
Proud of our OR members
We are extremely happy and proud of this group of colleagues who will volunteer their time to make our organization even better. The OR members will be an essential link between our employees and management. They will contribute ideas and advice to ensure that the voice of the employees is always heard. The OR members will also build a bridge between our various offices, which is why we have deliberately chosen a delegation from all locations.
We look forward to what the future will bring with our new OR on board. Together we are going to make our organization even stronger.
Florine Onderwijzer is part of the Next Leadership 50!
Florine Onderwijzer is part of the Next Leadership 50!
Thursday, Sept. 28, was a special day, as the annual Next Leadership 50 list of 2023 was presented by MT/Sprout. This list is a celebration of the Netherlands' greatest management talent under the age of 45. A unique moment for HeadFirst Group, because this was no less than the fourth (!) time that someone from our organization was included in the list. After Han Kolff (2010 & 2014), Marjolein Slappendel (2014) and Marion van Happen (2019) it is now Florine Onderwijzer's turn to be part of this inspiring group of professionals!
The meeting to mark the announcement of the Next Leadership 50 was a great experience. We heard inspiring stories from other Next Leaders, including Tessel Jarigsma, Simone van Neerven, Mark van Baal and Sanne de Laat-Koevoets. It was an opportunity to network, learn and be inspired by the accomplishments of other leaders. If you're curious about who, according to colleague Florine, the other 49 leadership talents of 2023 are, you can check out the full list here. It's an impressive group of people all contributing in their own way to positive change in the world.
All next-generation managers were asked what they do differently from the generation still in boardrooms today. Without a doubt, the most frequently mentioned answer: 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐭 𝐯𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐝𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐝. 𝐇𝐞𝐭 𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐚𝐢𝐭 𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐨𝐦 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐭. Florine said, "𝘉𝘦𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘪𝘦 𝘸𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘭𝘴 𝘭𝘦𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘫𝘯𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘪𝘦 𝘸𝘦 𝘶𝘪𝘵𝘻𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘣𝘪𝘫 𝘵𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘷𝘢𝘯 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘯." The growing importance of value creation in a broader social and environmental context is a trend we should all embrace. We can no longer pretend that only financial results matter; we must take responsibility for the world around us.
Florine feels honored to be on this prestigious list. "It is a recognition of my commitment and dedication as a leader, and I would like to thank Marion Van Happen, Marjolein Slappendel and Han Kolff for their unconditional support and trust. Leadership, innovation and the balance between technology and humanity have always been topics that my heart desires. It is a passion that I pursue daily in my work. I look forward to continuing my journey as a leader and seizing new opportunities to contribute to positive change. I look to the future and the opportunities ahead with enthusiasm. Together we can shape the world of leadership and innovation and make a positive impact on society and the world.
Want to read more about Florine's vision for leadership? Then look here >> https://mtsprout.nl/ranking/next-leadership-50-2023/persoon/florine-onderwijzer.
Afterglow of sun, beach and delicious party
Afterglow of sun, beach and delicious party
In the second week of September it was time again: HeadFirst Group's Summer Party. If you know us a little bit, you know that our parties are always something special. This time the festivities took place at an external location, namely at Papa's Beach House in Hoofddorp, and we can say with certainty that we all enjoyed one of the last days of summer.
With our feet in the sand and a refreshing cocktail in hand, colleagues from different labels, locations and departments were able to socialize with each other. Colleagues were even flown in, for example from Romania. It was a time to meet each other again and toast the highlights of the past six months. Before we sat down to dinner, the barbecue was lit and delicious salads were prepared. But the best was yet to come.
We were treated to great live performances! Soulm3n enchanted us with their musical talent, followed by the amazing Jeffrey Parmentier. And as icing on the cake, the Raddraaiers closed the evening. It was another night to never forget, but luckily you don't have to rely only on memories - we have a great aftermovie to relive the feeling!
So, are you ready to be part of these amazing parties? Then check out our job openings soon and who knows, maybe we'll see you at our next party in December!
"HeadFirst Group is an enthusiastic, ambitious and fast-growing organization" says new CFO Marjolein Slappendel
"HeadFirst Group is an enthusiastic, ambitious and fast-growing organization" says new CFO Marjolein Slappendel
Since June 1, Marjolein Slappendel has been the new CFO within our organization. In the first weeks, Marjolein mainly spent time getting to know the various departments and colleagues within our group. She wanted to get a picture of what is going well, where there is potential for improvement and what steps will be taken in the coming period.
In her own words, Marjolein's expectations of the potential of our organization have been far exceeded. "HeadFirst Group is an ambitious and fast-growing organization with very smart driven people. I am proud to be part of that now. It is a wonderful challenge to be responsible for the further professionalization of the business units finance, operations, quality and legal in order to further strengthen the basis for our growth ambitions."
"There is a driven atmosphere in the organization, making huge strides. We are constantly moving and that is also what suits me. I have always worked in departments where the adrenaline was regularly high. It suits who I am."
What's next on the agenda? "When I came in, a clear strategy toward 2025 was already mapped out: to become the market-leading, international HR tech service provider. This requires continuous improvement from us. Right now, the main focus is on digitizing our business. Automating where we can, so that repetitive things can go away from our colleagues, allowing them to focus more on contacting our clients. Something that fits completely with our aspiration: tech enables touch. For our finance and operations department this is very interesting and there are still good further steps to be made in this."
Marjolein looks positively on her first months at HeadFirst Group and can't wait to see what the further optimizations will enable us to do next. Do you want to contribute to these improvements and think and work on the future of this organization? Then take a look at our vacancies.
