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?
Gemma Keijzer
"Sustainability is not a department, it is something that should flow throughout the organization."
Gemma Keijzer | Head of Sustainability & Certifications
Gemma (40) is committed to making HeadFirst Group more sustainable. Thanks to her work, the organization achieved a gold Ecovadis medal and a B Corp certificate. This demonstrates HeadFirst Group's socially responsible entrepreneurship and active work to make a positive impact. Since July, Gemma has lived in Curaçao with her husband and two children. "We moved from Amersfoort. I now work remotely and it goes surprisingly well. It's nice that HeadFirst Group is flexible with that."
The route to HeadFirst Group
Gemma studied Language and Cultural Studies at Utrecht University. "There I learned to think analytically above all. That still helps me every day." After her studies, she started at a credit card company in the Internal Audit & Compliance department. "Interesting work, but I found that I liked coaching much more. During my studies, I had benefited greatly from conversations with my student advisor, and I wanted to be able to do the same for others."
Through an educational institution where she worked as a mentor, she advanced to head of customer service. "There I discovered how much I enjoyed improving processes. Creating reports, seeing how things could be done faster and better." That interest eventually led her to quality management. "I wanted out of the education sector and was approached by HeadFirst Group to set up quality management. That seemed super cool."
From certifications to sustainability
When Gemma started, HeadFirst had just acquired Between. "The organization had doubled in size. There were certificates everywhere, but no one owned them. That had to be centralized." She started with ISO certifications for quality and environment. "But soon there were also questions about sustainability. We had registrations with different brands such as FastFlex and Staffing MS on Ecovadis, but no one was managing that. Then I picked this up and made it a group registration."
Ecovadis is an international platform that rates companies on sustainability. You are scored on themes such as the environment, labor rights, ethics and sustainable sourcing. HeadFirst Group achieved a gold medal, making us one of the top five percent worldwide. "I'm really proud of that," says Gemma.
Working together for sustainable change
''Sustainability plays a role in every choice we make. Together with my colleagues from Team Legal, we ensure that we deal responsibly with human rights, fair policies and clear rules of conduct.'' Furthermore, Gemma works with Skip Seageart, he is responsible for Social Return on Investment. We work with diversity partners who employ people with a distance to the labor market, such as neurodiverse professionals or people with visual or hearing impairments. For example, we hired Jamey Blazer at Recruitment. He is deaf and works incredibly well within the team. These are really great examples of what you can do under the umbrella of sustainability.'' In addition, HR is an important sparring partner. "They provide data for our reports, from sick leave to job growth. But they are also involved in inclusive recruitment and mobility policy. Sometimes that requires challenging choices, for example if we want to reduce our carbon emissions. Then you really have to search together for solutions that are sustainable and workable."
"If you are curious, show initiative and enjoy working toward social growth, this is a place where you will quickly feel at home."
Growing and continuing to improve
Gemma's role has grown considerably in recent years. "We have gone from reactive to proactive. Sustainability requires continuous improvement." The same goes for our ISO certifications. "You have to demonstrate every year that you are making strides. If you stand still, you lose points. That keeps us on our toes and ensures that we continue to develop." HeadFirst Group's international expansion has broadened its field of work. "We now work together with Impellam and have to draw up a joint sustainability policy. That means coordinating with colleagues from England, America and Australia. Super interesting but also challenging, for example in terms of time zones. Yet above all it gives Gemma energy. "It shows that my work has meaning and continues to challenge."
B Corp
In addition to Ecovadis, HeadFirst Group also obtained the leading B Corp certificate. "This is a voluntary certification that shows that as an organization you really go the extra mile. We did a baseline measurement, were below the standard, and then made an improvement plan. One action point, for example, was to make our mobility policy more sustainable."
What B Corp gives us? "It forces you to look critically at your entire value chain, from suppliers to internal processes. We now actively assess whether our partners are also working sustainably and ethically. That makes us stronger, more transparent and more attractive to clients who take sustainability seriously."
Working at HeadFirst Group
"HeadFirst Group has become a lot more informal in recent years. Where people used to come to the office in suits, you now see sneakers and jeans. But the ambition has remained. We work hard, but also celebrate our successes. We do that with drinks and parties, but also with sporting events like Mud Masters and the Dam tot Damloop." Gemma especially appreciates the room for initiative. "You get a lot of freedom here to take things on. If you say, 'this is important,' you get the space to do so."
Will you become Gemma's new colleague?
Martijn Wolf
"We want people to feel welcome from day one. The lines are short, the barriers low. You can literally walk into anyone's house.''
Martijn Wolf | Learning & Development specialist
Martijn Wolf (28) has been working at HeadFirst Group as a Learning & Development Specialist for almost two years now. His route to this role began while studying Applied Psychology, where he quickly discovered that his passion lies in training and coaching people within organizations.
Own development
After college, he started as a recruiter to gain experience. Not much later he got the chance to train customer service employees for a year and a half, under the guidance of Marelle Beune, now Recruitment Director at HeadFirst Group. When she transferred to HeadFirst and was looking for someone in the field of Learning & Development, she immediately thought of Martijn. His experience in both recruitment and training proved to be a perfect match.
As a Learning & Development specialist, Martijn is responsible for everything around learning and development within HeadFirst Group. "When I started, there was very little in place. That gave me the chance to build something from the ground up." One of his first projects was revamping Onboarding, but his work goes much further. Martijn gives a lot of internal training himself, with communication as a major theme. This topic is now extra in the spotlight because of the organization-wide implementation of a new communication system. Within this project, Martijn is responsible for the communication part. How do you have a good conversation, with customers, but also with colleagues? His communication trainings play a central role in this. From giving feedback to having a good job interview, Martijn has developed a whole series of practical trainings. Each training starts with a need. "Sometimes it's about new implementation of laws and regulations. Then I gather knowledge from colleagues and translate that into practical work forms, such as a role-play." His goal is always that people not only understand something, but actually apply it in their work. "For me, that's the only measuring tool that counts: if I see it reflected in behavior, then I know the training has been effective."
Learn every day
For Martijn, Learn Everyday is much more than just a fancy term. It is a way of thinking and working. "Technology and the world around us are changing at lightning speed. If you don't keep learning, you will fall behind," he says. For him, it's about constantly improving, whether it's something small or big." Whether it's major technological developments, new legislation or just a better way of customer contact, every bit of development counts within the organization." That's why he focuses on performance-based learning that makes a real difference in everyday work.
Onboarding as the foundation of success
Onboarding at HeadFirst Group is not just an introduction. It is an extension of the culture and core values. Martijn completely revamped the process into a five-week interactive program centered on core values such as Learn Everyday, Connecting People and Customer First.
On the central introduction day, all HeadFirst Group labels come together at the head office in Hoofddorp. New colleagues get acquainted, exchange experiences and immediately build their internal network. This fits perfectly with the core value Connecting People. In addition, new employees learn through sessions and presentations how the organization works and where the key areas of expertise lie. The Onboarding is carried by eight different workshop leaders, each with their own specialty and story. Not only do they share their knowledge, but they also talk enthusiastically about their role within the organization and what you can approach them for. This makes the program personal and ensures a warm welcome. New colleagues immediately experience how accessible and committed the people at HeadFirst are.
Furthermore, each starter is assigned a buddy so there is room for personal guidance from the field. That peer-to-peer guidance fits well with the learning-oriented nature of the organization."When you're just starting out, you need someone who has time, knows your work well and is really there for you." This makes Learn Everyday not just something we say, but something you experience directly.
The content workshops include customer satisfaction, security, sustainability, diversity and laws and regulations. Everything is in line with what HeadFirst stands for: quality, an eye for people and society. In short: Customer First, and really knowing what's going on. Martijn sums it up powerfully: "We want people to feel welcome and prepared from day one. But also that they immediately experience how learning, improvement and collaboration are intertwined."
Open culture
Martijn describes the culture of the organization as professional, but at the same time open and approachable. "We are now over 400 colleagues, but everyone was immediately open to my ideas on training. You don't often see that on this scale." That openness starts at the top. CEO Marion van Happen personally takes the time for each new colleague to get acquainted and hear who they are and what they bring to the organization. "That typifies our organization. The lines are short, the barriers low. You can literally walk into anyone's house.'' It's exactly what appeals to Martijn so much: "We connect organizations with each other, but also consciously seek that connection internally."
"Change is a constant with us. If you are someone who is energized by improvement, by collaboration, by growth, then you are a perfect fit here. You don't have to be able to do everything already. What we are looking for are people who are curious, who want to learn and show themselves. If you bring that, you'll get all the room you need here."
Erix Santman
"There is a lot of knowledge and little ego here. People are eager to work together. If you have a good idea, you get the space to work it out."
Erix Santman | Product Manager
From events to IT
Before Erix joined HeadFirst Group, he worked in the event and music industry for nearly 20 years. Not a standard route to tech, you might think. But for him, it felt like a logical step. "I was doing a lot of legal stuff and systems there. So the switch to IT wasn't really that big of a deal at all." In addition to his work as a product manager, Erix is still active as a DJ and teaches part-time at the conservatory.
The core of Striive
Erix started at HeadFirst Group as a business analyst. He was immediately close to the core of what is now Striive: the platform that connects freelancers, professionals and clients. "I was involved in the very first brainstorming sessions. What should the platform be able to do? Who are we building this for? That whole process of thinking, designing and building immediately appealed to me."
He now works as a product manager within the compliance team. His mission: to make the legal onboarding process for professionals as logical and smooth as possible. "Professionals have to go through dozens of separate steps before they can start working for a client. We have translated that into a streamlined process. From an average of three to four weeks to about ten days. And often even within one day."
Improve based on data
That acceleration is no accident. Erix and his team make continuous adjustments based on feedback, data and test results. "We look at where people take longer or seem to get stuck, then you know: we need to improve something there. Small iterations, but constantly in motion."
To be able to have the right conversation with developers in this, he also delved further into technology. "Among other things, I took a database management course. That helps tremendously in reading the data, making connections and ultimately making better product choices."
Moving forward together
On office days, the team at Erix starts as early as 7 a.m.. Not because they have to, but because it works. "The developers were already doing it, and I really like it now too. You start fresh and can discuss a lot with each other before the rest come in. The team also consists of those real North Holland, hard workers."
What appeals most to him? The collaboration. "With us it is very equal and independent. We make decisions together and everyone feels ownership. That makes the work not only more efficient, but also just more fun."
Learning, growing and staying sharp
"What I find both challenging and incredibly fun is that I work with really smart people. I hear developers and product managers say things that make me think: wow! They make connections at lightning speed and have in-depth knowledge of how to build software as well as how the entire platform works technically. It's just a cool environment to be in." After four years, Erix himself has a good understanding of how everything works. "Certainly within my field and through experience from outside IT, I feel I can really contribute something. But it's that constant interaction with people who each think and build from their expertise that makes the work so fascinating."
According to Erix, that is exactly the strength of working at HeadFirst Group. "I always say: you should never be the smartest person in the room. Well, that's not the case here, and that keeps you on your toes. This is not a job where you can run on routine. It requires you to keep thinking, shifting gears and developing yourself." And there is plenty of room for that. Since he started at HeadFirst Group, Erix has already attended five training courses. "There are ongoing opportunities here that you can tackle, but then you have to make sure you keep up, and that is encouraged here."
A place for people who want to build
What Erix appreciates about HeadFirst Group compared to his previous industry is the open, substantive atmosphere. "There is a lot of knowledge and little ego here. People like to work together. If you have a good idea, you get the space to work it out."
His advice to future colleagues? "You don't have to be able to do everything already. If you are curious, take responsibility and enjoy working together, this is a place where you can grow. "You work here on something that is seen by thousands of people in a short period of time - exactly what I loved most about the dance industry, and I have that same feeling again now at HeadFirst."
Will you become Erix's new colleague?
Diederick van Tellingen
"What does a user think? That's where it starts for me."
Diederick van Tellingen | UX Designer
After years of working externally through agencies, Diederick was ready for a place where he could really contribute, grow and build something for the long term. This he found at HeadFirst Group. About his work he is clear: "I love the puzzle. What does the user need, and how can we make that as intuitive and pleasant as possible?"
The road to UX Designer
Diederick studied Communication & Multimedia Design, a course that pairs creativity with technology. "That's where my passion for UX began. Interfaces are everywhere, from ATM to platform. You learn how to create user-friendly digital products."
After eight years working at an agency, for clients ranging from agricultural products to addiction services, he discovered that he preferred to work long-term on one product within one domain. "I was hired as an external by HeadFirst, I saw potential and then knew pretty quickly: this is where I want to stay."
UX: the mix of psychology and design
At HeadFirst Group, Diederick is responsible for the entire user experience of Striive. He does this both on the front end for external users and on the back end for internal colleagues. "For me, UX is psychology and creativity all in one. It's about understanding what users want and how they want it. What's going on in their heads and how do you translate that into something visual and working?"
He works closely with Product Owners and Developers. "We design interfaces that help users get from A to B in a logical way," he says.
Build, test, improve
“I love getting my hands dirty. Putting together a bit of HTML or CSS? I love it!”
Creative and technical
Why HeadFirst Group?
Will you be Diederick's colleague?
Eva Voskuil and Danieck van Geijlswijk
''Working at HeadFirst Group helps me tremendously. I immediately recognize theory in practice, which makes studying easier.''
Eva Voskuil & Danieck van Geijlswijk | Working students
Working as a working student at HeadFirst Group
Are you a student and looking for a challenging side job that perfectly matches your studies and boosts your resume? At HeadFirst Group as a working student you get the chance to gain practical experience in a professional working environment. Eva Voskuil (19, Marketing & Communications) and Danieck van Geijlswijk (22, HR) both work at HeadFirst Group for one and a half years and tell us what it's like.
For both students it is clear: practical experience is super valuable. Danieck, who is in the final year of her HR studies, says: "Working at HeadFirst Group helps me tremendously. I recognize theory directly in practice, which makes studying easier." Eva, first-year Business Studies, adds: "My studies are broad and through this work experience I now know better which side of Marketing & Communications I like best." The flexibility in working hours makes it easier to combine work and study. Eva: "Sometimes I work two half days and one full day, and another week differently. That makes it easy for me to combine my work at HeadFirst Group with my studies." Danieck adds, "I can determine my days myself, which allows me to coordinate work, study and private life well."
The ideal mix of flexibility
HeadFirst Group offers the opportunity for working students to work hybrid. This is convenient if you have just had college, for example. Eva: "Sometimes I work at home for a few hours after a morning lecture, which saves travel time and is efficient." Still, both prefer working in the office. Danieck: "You learn the most by being physically present. At the office you also develop socially and build a bond with your colleagues faster." Eva adds: "The social contact and sociability in the office make the work extra fun."
Not a working student, but full-fledged colleague
What sets HeadFirst Group apart is the way work students are treated as full-fledged colleagues. Eva and Danieck, for example, have official job titles: Eva as Marketing & Communications Officer and Danieck as HR Assistant. What do you do on a workday in this role?
Eva: "I work on internal and external communications, from social media to newsletters and website management. That gives a lot of responsibility and ensures that I learn quickly." Danieck plays an important role within HR, supporting various operational tasks: "For example, I deal with contract renewals, salary changes, absence registration and the Onboarding for new employees. "
''I really like that I can arrange my hours flexibly - that way it's always easy to combine with school.''
Lots of learning, lots of variety
Both Eva and Danieck work closely with different departments within HeadFirst Group. Eva: "Our Marketing and Communications team works a lot with HR, Facility & Events and team Engineering, especially for managing the website and internal communications. We also support Public Affairs in disseminating updates on legislation and regulations."
Danieck works with almost all teams within the organization: "HR deals with everyone. For example, I have a lot of contact with Marketing & Communications and with Corporate Recruitment for offers to possible new starters. This makes the work very dynamic." These collaborations provide broad development, according to both ladies. In addition, their work experience at HeadFirst Group gives them a new perspective on their field. Eva: "At school I mainly learn about marketing models, but here I notice how creativity and strategy come together in practice. That is a valuable addition to my studies." Danieck: "I learned how HR policy really works. What sometimes remains abstract in college, I can directly apply here."
"I thought I would mainly put school knowledge into practice, but through this work I actually understand my studies better - and that's a nice bonus.
projects to be proud of
Both students have already completed impactful projects. Eva: "I spent months working on the launch of the new Striive website and I'm getting to work on revamping HeadFirst Group's social media channels." Danieck: "I have a role in the onboarding of new employees and it's nice to see that colleagues appreciate it." Onboarding is the process in which new employees are introduced to the organization. This begins on the first day of work and continues for five weeks until they are fully settled in.
A work atmosphere where you can be yourself
What makes HeadFirst Group such a great place to work? Eva and Danieck quickly agree: the open and warm working atmosphere. Danieck: "You can be 100% yourself here. Everyone is accepted as they are." Eva adds, "It's a place where you are challenged to grow, but where you also really feel at home."
Eva also emphasizes how important her supervisor Natasja Spooren-Wassenaar (Manager of Marketing & Communications) is to her: "Natasja gave me a lot of trust and space to develop myself from the beginning. Her guidance ensured that I quickly felt at home within the team and that I could really contribute something."
Finally, tips for prospective work-study students.
For students looking for a side job alongside their studies, they have a clear message: just do it! Danieck: "My studies are easier thanks to this place. You have your evenings and weekends free, it's well paid and you get a warm team in return." Eva also emphasizes the benefits for your career: "Many students get stuck after their studies because they have no experience. This is the perfect way to get a head start already and build your network."
Will you become Eva and Danieck's new colleague?
Wouter Schils
''The best thing about my job is the autonomy I experience - the freedom to make my own choices and the responsibility to really make an impact.''
Wouter Schils | Online Marketer
From recruiter to Online Marketer
Originally from Maastricht, but now living in Amsterdam, 33-year-old Wouter began his career as a recruiter after studying Labor and Organizational Psychology. Soon his interest in digital marketing grew, upon which he decided to further specialize in this field through an external education and a traineeship. After various roles as Campaign Marketer, CRO specialist and Brand Marketer, he made the move to HeadFirst Group. "I regularly saw HeadFirst Group passing by and already knew a few people within the organization. It quickly became clear to me that this is a professional group of people and a great organization within the HR & Recruitment sector. When I saw that there was a vacancy open for Online Marketer, the choice was quickly made."
The challenge and autonomy in his role
As an Online Marketer, Wouter focuses on developing and optimizing digital marketing campaigns with a focus on measurable results. He strategically deploys channels such as SEO and social advertising to maximize online visibility, growth and conversions for clients, professionals, partners and potential colleagues. "The best thing about my job is the autonomy I experience. I get the space to make choices and develop strategies independently. This has helped me mature professionally. Moreover, I can identify the needs of stakeholders within the organization and respond proactively. The freedom and trust I get in this makes my work enormously valuable." Wouter continues: "He also finds it important to support colleagues within the Marketing & Communications team and share his knowledge. I notice that colleagues seek me out with questions about how to measure the effectiveness of their own projects using data."
Projects to be proud of
Among other things, Wouter has an important role in Employer Branding campaigns. "We work continuously to make HeadFirst Group more visible as an employer and to position it more attractively. Through data analysis and optimizations, we can make increasingly effective choices, bringing more professionals into contact with our organization and the opportunities we offer. This leads directly to more interaction."
Wouter's development within HeadFirst Group shows how many opportunities the company offers. "I started here with a focus on execution, but now I work more and more on a strategic level on projects and processes.
"Within our team, we are always there for each other and help each other out the moment someone gets stuck. This cooperation not only makes the work more fun, but also ensures that we continue to grow as a team."
The top sports mentality as a driving force within HeadFirst Group
The top sports mentality within HeadFirst Group is all about continuous improvement, collaboration and getting the best out of yourself and the team. 'Together' and 'better every day' are important values within the organization. As in top sports, this is about a winning mentality, in which innovation and knowledge sharing are central.
Wouter recognizes this mentality in practice. "Colleagues want to get the best out of themselves. However, this does not mean that you always have to work at full speed; instead, there is room to set your own pace and approach." Within Team HeadFirst Group, this mindset is actively encouraged by learning together, challenging each other and continuously looking for improvements, both individually and collectively.
Why work at HeadFirst Group?
Wouter encourages everyone to come and experience the atmosphere at HeadFirst Group for themselves. "You get the space here to take initiatives and suggest improvements. You are really listened to and you have the freedom to shape your own work."
And as icing on the cake? "For the Limburgers among us: you get an extra day off that you can use during Carnival, for example, a nice bonus! Within our working method we use the D&I day: an extra day off that you can take to celebrate a holiday that is not standardly recognized as an official day off in the Netherlands. This allows you to celebrate what is important to you.
Do you want to be part of an organization where autonomy, growth and collaboration are key? Check out our vacancies and discover what HeadFirst Group can do for you!
Will you become Wouter's new colleague?
Christine Koekkoek
"I didn't completely let go of my medical background - I wanted to do something with and for people, but in the technical corner. That comes together at HeadFirst Group: Tech & People connected."
Christine Koekkoek | Product Manager
Christine Koekkoek begon haar loopbaan in de medische wereld, maar ontdekte al snel dat haar hart ligt bij creativiteit, technologie en het oplossen van complexe vraagstukken. Via verschillende startups rolde ze het productmanagement in, waar voor haar alles samenkomt: bouwen, samenwerken en continu verbeteren.
At HeadFirst Group, Christine started as a Business Analyst and in no time advanced to Product Manager. Now she leads the team that is responsible for Enrolment & Retention within Striive - the platform for professionals, suppliers and clients. "We develop functionalities that really help people - from registration to long-term use - and do so in close cooperation with our users. Feedback is our fuel."
From feedback to innovation
One of her first projects? Improving the search experience for freelancers. "Users reported that the assignment page was not intuitive enough. We listened, designed, tested and rolled out. The result: a faster and more enjoyable assignment search," Christine says. That customer-centric approach is deep in HeadFirst Group's DNA. "We continuously analyze feedback and translate it into concrete product improvements. This is how we build a platform that is ever more attuned to the real world." She doesn't do this alone. "I work with a fixed product team: a designer, software engineers and a tester. At the beginning of the week, we set a goal, and every morning we review what is needed to meet that goal. We work pragmatically and agile, continuously delivering value in small steps, and always improving based on what we learn."
International growth with impact
Christine works with her team on projects that make an impact across borders. For Impellam Group - the international company with which HeadFirst Group forms HeadFirst Global - they are developing, among other things, a self-service module for supplier onboarding. "With this we save time, increase quality and ensure that suppliers can start faster," Christine explains. But it's not just about efficiency. "We are also looking at new ways to attract talent, both locally and internationally. This is essential for our ambition to become the largest flex talent pool in Europe and an attractive partner for international clients. That's where things get really interesting." And there's more in the pipeline. "We are preparing Striive for international rollout. Think about integrating systems, data structures and processes that work not only in the Benelux, but also in the UK, US and Australia. Each choice we substantiate with data, prototypes and validations - this is how we build sustainable, scalable solutions."
Growing as a professional and a person
International cooperation brings not only technical challenges, but also personal growth. "I work with people from all kinds of countries, each with their own way of working and culture. That requires flexibility and good communication. It is challenging, but also incredibly educational - especially in the area of change management and strategic international cooperation."
You + HeadFirst Group = building the future
For Christine, it was important to work at an organization that fit her values. "I didn't completely let go of my medical background - I wanted to do something with and for people, but in the technical corner. At HeadFirst Group that comes together: Tech & People connected." Her message to future colleagues? "At HeadFirst Group you get the freedom and responsibility to really build something. If you are curious, show initiative and enjoy working at the intersection of technology and people, you will feel right at home here. You don't have to be able to do everything already - if you want to grow, you'll get all the room you need."
Will you become Christine's new colleague?
Annemieke Adrichem
''After a week, I felt like I had been working here much longer.''
Sometimes a new opportunity presents itself from an unexpected angle. That happened to Annemieke Adrichem (57), who heard about a vacancy for receptionist at HeadFirst Group through her daughter - a working student in the HR department. At first she hesitated. "I had never worked in an office environment before and thought I was not handy enough with computers," Annemieke explains. "In addition, I wondered if I should take on such a big change at 57." Nevertheless, after a positive job interview, she decided to take on the challenge. She has now been working at HeadFirst Group for more than three months and feels right at home.
A versatile background and a big step
Annemieke has a diverse work background, from owning her own flower store to 26 years in a catering butcher shop and working as a family helper. Still, she wondered if she wanted to do this for the next 10 years. "A career switch at 57 seemed exciting, but after my conversation with Klaske (Manager Executive Office) I realized that this was an opportunity to challenge myself."
The versatile role of receptionist within HeadFirst Group
As a receptionist at HeadFirst Group, Annemieke has a versatile and dynamic position. She receives guests, manages registrations and agendas, coordinates lunches, supervises technicians and takes care of the mail. She also arranges the issue of pool cars and supports colleagues where necessary. "People come to the front desk for everything from a band-aid or a pen to help with parking. What I like about my job is the social side; I like helping people and creating a positive atmosphere."
Annemieke is part of team Facility & Events and experiences the cooperation as very pleasant. "From day one I felt welcome. Everyone is friendly and approachable, and we work well together. It's a social team where colleagues are there for each other. After a week it felt like I had been working here much longer."
A valuable onboarding process
A new job also means a new system, a new way of working and new colleagues. To make this go smoothly, HeadFirst Group offers an extensive onboarding process. Annemieke has experienced this as particularly valuable.
During the onboarding, Annemieke got a good picture of HeadFirst Group as an organization. "A lot of attention was paid to the company culture and core values, such as the importance that everyone can be themselves. I really notice that in practice," she says. "In addition, I found the trainings, such as the one on safety and the Yellow Belt training, very valuable. Especially the thinking in solutions and improvements I take into my work."
In addition to the content of the onboarding, the program also helped her make social contacts quickly. "I was in a fun group right away, which made me feel comfortable quickly and get to know colleagues from day one.'"
A warm organization
What Annemieke appreciates most about HeadFirst Group is the open and social work environment. "Everyone is friendly and approachable. It really feels like a warm bath." For anyone considering applying for a job at HeadFirst Group, Annemieke has a clear message: "Just do it! I took the step and never regretted it for a moment."
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