Corporate Social Responsibility at Headstar
At Headstar, we believe in creating meaningful change – whether that’s through recruitment, empowering communities, or supporting our planet. Our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is driven by a simple goal: to make a positive impact on people and the world around us. From volunteering with local charities to fostering inclusivity in the workplace, our initiatives reflect the values at the heart of everything we do.
Supporting Communities
Charity Partnership with Smart Works Leeds
We are proud to partner with Smart Works Leeds, part of UK employment charity, Smart Works. Smart Works is a dynamic, high profile and fast-growing UK charity that exists to empower all women who need help getting into work.
The charity’s service uses the power of high-quality clothing and one-to-one coaching to help unemployed women fulfil their potential, get the job and transform their lives.
Boosting self-belief at one of the most important stages of the job search makes a huge difference – 63% of Smart Works clients getting a job within one month of their appointment. As of March 2025, the charity has doubled in size to officially support over 10,000 women nationwide into employment each year.
The Headstar partnership will develop over time, including support for Smart Works’ fundraising events, organising an annual clothing drive, and practical help with the charity’s upcoming office move as it prepares to double its Leeds premises.
Click here to read more about our charity partnership with Smart Works Leeds, To find out more about how you could get involved check out the charity website here: https://leeds.smartworks.org.uk.
Donate a Day Volunteering Scheme
This initiative is a cornerstone of our Employee Wellbeing Programme, providing the Headstar team with an opportunity to support regional charities and give back to local communities. We have run this volunteering scheme for several years, enabling the team to donate a day of their time to provide hands-on support for a range of different organisations including Zarach (the children’s bed charity), the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and the Hull Animal Welfare Trust.
Championing Inclusion
At Headstar, we don’t just talk about inclusion – we live it. Our approach to recruitment and events is rooted in equality, diversity, and inclusion, creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds to thrive.
Inclusive Recruitment
We focus on hiring based on character, which helps to reduce unconscious bias and ensure that everyone has a fair shot at success.
For more details about our inclusive recruitment practices and how we’re breaking down barriers, visit our Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) page.
Supporting Future Talent
We continue to provide apprenticeship opportunities to young professionals seeking a career in recruitment or business operations. Four apprentices have joined Headstar over the past four years, two of whom have already progressed into senior roles.
Careers Masterclass with Leeds Beckett University
In collaboration with Leeds Beckett University, Headstar runs an annual Career Masterclass designed to guide graduates in exploring career opportunities within the accountancy and finance sectors. This event provides valuable insights into the industry, helping students navigate the job market with confidence.
ICAEW Annual Accountancy Practice Student Event
Each year, Headstar partners with Leeds Beckett University to host the ICAEW Annual Accountancy Practice Student Event. This initiative brings together students, and recruitment representatives to network and discuss career pathways into the accountancy field. Our commitment to supporting students is part of our broader mission to invest in the future of the finance profession.
Supporting Career Development
Mentoring Programme for Finance Directors
Headstar provides ongoing mentoring to Finance Directors (FDs) through our tailored programmes. We offer guidance, leadership coaching, and industry insights to help FDs and aspiring FDs navigate their career journey and drive growth within
their organisations. Alongside our Finance Futures: The Executive Summit, this forms part of our commitment to developing the next generation of leadership in the finance sector.
Promoting Sustainability
In line with our commitment to sustainability, Headstar has adopted a digital-first recruitment approach. We prioritise paperless processes throughout our recruitment cycle, from CV submission to contract signing, reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to environmental conservation.
Candidate Support
Content Hub
Headstar’s Content Hub is a free online resource offering a wide range of practical guides and useful videos to support candidates at various stages of their careers. From how to forge a career as a Finance Director, interview advice, how to work effectively with a recruitment agency, and much more, this hub helps clients and jobseekers alike navigate the ever-changing job market.
Caring for the Environment
While our focus has traditionally been on people, we understand that businesses also have a role to play in protecting the planet.
At Headstar, we:
- Encourage digital-first approaches to recruitment, reducing reliance on printed materials.
- Support hybrid and remote working to minimise commuting-related emissions.
- Actively recycle in our offices, from paper to electronics, ensuring sustainable waste management.
- Are committed to finding new ways to further reduce our environmental footprint.
