It has been another remarkable year for Talentheads, filled with connections, achievements, and initiatives that highlight the strength and innovation of the North East business community. From engaging in high-level panels to partnering on impactful projects, our team has remained at the heart of conversations shaping the region's future.
We began the year speaking on a panel at the North East Combined Authority Conference in January, setting the tone for the year based on collaboration. Since then, we have actively participated in events across the region, from the Entrepreneurs Forum to the North East Chamber of Commerce, sharing ideas and exploring strategies with fellow business leaders.
Our commitment to business as a force for good has seen us champion initiatives around sustainability, ethical practices, and the transformative potential of AI in recruitment and its impact on future careers.
May was a particularly busy month, with highlights including the North East Chamber of Commerce Spring Dinner and House Party, exhibiting at the North East Expo, and speaking at the inaugural Disrupt North East event.
That month also marked our ‘Know It All Network’ (KIAN) event featuring Emma Gaudern, with subsequent events in September and November welcoming Ammar Mirza and Michaela Reeney. These events continue to provide inspiring platforms for learning, connecting, and community development.
Later in the year, we broadened our horizons with our first Thinking Digital Conference and connected with international business leaders in London through the Dubai Chamber of Commerce initiative.
Strategic partnerships have been central to our growth: sponsoring two Entrepreneurs Forum Conferences, joining the North East Chamber of Commerce Business Services Ecosystem, and collaborating with the Chamber and the Department for Education to launch the Inclusive Recruitment Toolkit, helping local businesses attract and retain talent more effectively.
Our client work remains the cornerstone of what we do. Supporting over 40 organisations this year, both inside and outside of the UK, we have delivered tailored, results-driven recruitment that creates measurable impact for growing businesses.
Talentheads has also amplified its voice through content and media. Our founder, Sam, launched “The Journey of a North East Entrepreneur” podcast, celebrating local business stories, while our appearance on the Blu Sky Podcast offered insights into the evolving world of People and Culture, showcasing our expertise in recruitment, engagement, and organisational growth.
Recognition and accolades have further marked 2025. We proudly sponsored the HR&D North East Awards, celebrated being finalists for Business of the Year at the North East Chamber of Commerce Awards, and achieved finalist status in the British Business Excellence Awards, which included a visit to the Houses of Commons. Other highlights included recognition in the Northumberland Business Awards and being Impact finalists in the Entrepreneurs Forum Awards. The year’s crowning achievement was winning the Chairman’s Award at the ABC Awards 2025, reflecting the dedication and passion of Sam and the Talentheads team.
Alongside all this, we celebrated key milestones, including our 5th birthday, the launch of a refreshed brand, and a brandnew website – all reflecting our growth and renewed vision for the future.
From panels and conferences to awards, partnerships, and collaboration, Talentheads remains committed to helping organisations grow through smarter talent strategies, fostering inclusion, and championing community impact. We look forward to another year of connecting, innovating, and redefining recruitment – just not as you know it.
As always, we’re excited for what’s to come.
If you would like to be part of our journey, contact us on 0191 300 8688 hello@talentheads.co.uk
www.talentheads.co.uk

