Interview_Water-Valley_Adrian-Tallant

As the HR Manager at Water Valley, Adrian Tallant plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s recruitment, employee development, and workplace culture. With a deep passion for fostering a positive, inclusive environment, Adrian ensures that Water Valley is a place to grow, thrive, and be part of a collaborative team. Outside of work, Adrian enjoys time with his family, especially cheering on his 4-year-old daughter as she takes on her next big sporting adventure—baseball, a special bonding experience they both cherish.

Right off the bat, what makes Water Valley the place to work?

“Water Valley offers a unique, tight-knit community atmosphere that’s hard to find in bigger cities. It’s a small town, but it’s filled with opportunities and a welcoming culture that’s unlike any other. When people visit our plant, it’s not just about the work—it’s about the people. They quickly feel the open, supportive vibe where everyone is included.”

How would you describe the plant’s culture?

“Like I said, it’s all about the people. Our culture is built on strong relationships, mutual respect, and a true sense of belonging. We pride ourselves on being a place where everyone is part of the team, no matter their role. It’s a culture that encourages collaboration, celebrates diversity, and promotes a shared purpose. We live by the ALL-IN philosophy—giving our all because if it’s not worth doing with full commitment, it’s not worth doing at all. Every day is a team effort, and together, we make things happen.”

What keeps people committed to staying long-term?

“It’s the combination of great people and growth opportunities. At Water Valley, you’re not just an employee—you’re part of something bigger. We foster a collaborative work environment and are committed to supporting your professional development. We want you to thrive and reach your career goals, making this a place where you build a long-term career, not just a job.”

What opportunities do employees have to grow their careers?

“We believe in growing from within. Everyone has regular one-on-one discussions with their manager to set career goals and receive valuable feedback. For our management team, we offer internal training in other disciplines and how they interconnect, including areas like communication and finance. This helps them lead effectively with a broader perspective on the business. Our mentorship and leadership programs help employees move up in the company, keeping career growth on the fast track.”

How do you find the right people to join the team?

“We promote from within as much as possible, but we also bring in talent through local co-op programs and internships. When we hire externally, we look for people who fit our culture—self-starters who take ownership and want to make a real impact. We want people who are excited to be here and bring fresh energy to the team.”

What qualities do you look for in potential candidates?

“We focus on finding the right cultural fit. We want proactive, adaptable people who thrive in a collaborative environment. If you’re someone who takes ownership of your work, loves making a difference, and enjoys being part of a close-knit team, you’ll fit right in here.”

What’s the company’s approach to workplace safety?

“Safety is at the core of everything we do. We’re an OSHA VPP Star worksite, which speaks volumes about our commitment to safety. Employees from other facilities often express surprise at how safe it feels here—injuries are rare because of our strong focus on safety. It’s something we’re very proud of and evident in everything we do.”

How do the benefits at Water Valley reflect its values?

“Our benefits package is top-notch. We cover more of your insurance premiums than many employers, and our 401k plan is strong. We also offer wellness programs, an onsite gym, a cafeteria, and even a nurse. We care about the whole person, not just the employee, and are always looking for ways to support our team outside the workday.”

Why is community involvement important to the company?

“Water Valley is deeply rooted in the community, and we take pride in giving back. We celebrate cultural holidays and ensure our employees feel represented. Whether through local events or charitable donations, we’re always finding ways to make a positive impact on the community.”