Birmingham Welcomes New Leadership at Chalker Group
Birmingham is buzzing with excitement as Jen Dent and Walton Foster step into their roles as co-owners of Chalker Group, an all-female recruitment firm that specializes in helping local employers attract top talent. The excitement in the air is palpable as these two dynamic women look to make a lasting impact on their community and the workforce.
From Mentorship to Ownership
Jen and Walton have been at the helm of Chalker Group for over a year, following a successful tenure under former owner Barbara Burton, who played a significant part in shaping the company for the past decade. According to Walton, “I had been at Chalker for eight-plus years, and it was a natural next step.” With Barbara ready to pass the torch, both women seized the opportunity to take ownership of a business they are passionate about.
Connecting Talent with Community
At the heart of Chalker Group’s mission is the goal to not only recruit for employers like the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) but also to connect recruits with local resources, helping them acclimate to their new city. This approach includes arranging school tours for families, assisting those with special needs, and introducing recruits to local places of worship.
A Personal Touch
“My love language is gift-giving,” Jen shared. “When I started working for Chalker, it was like giving these families the gift of an experience that would change their lives.” Both women aim to curate an experience tailored to each recruit’s needs, believing that welcoming newcomers enriches the city’s culture.
Embracing Diversity
Diversity is also a crucial aspect of their work. Jen, who has international experience from living abroad, noted, “I’ve always had this natural affinity for wanting to learn about other cultures.” With recruits coming from all over the world, both Jen and Walton are committed to understanding various cultural backgrounds to help foster a welcoming environment.
Outdoor Adventures and Local Arts
One of the many perks of living in Birmingham is the abundance of outdoor activities. “Most recruits enjoy spending time outdoors, and here, you can be outdoors 12 months a year,” Walton said. The duo frequently organizes guided tours at local spots like Red Mountain Park and recommends visits to the Birmingham Museum of Art and the Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts. They often take recruits to the Pepper Place Farmers’ Market to give them a taste of the local culture.
A Supportive Work Environment
At Chalker Group, teamwork and flexibility are foundational values. “We work together to create experiences and find resources,” Walton explained. Jen agreed, stating, “I think we can all agree that work-life balance is a myth. It’s a pendulum.” This understanding allows employees to support each other during busy times, creating a positive and happy work culture.
A Passion for Birmingham
When it comes to their personal interests, Jen and Walton emphasize local flavor. Walton enjoys visiting the farmers’ market and immersing herself in the local art scene, while Jen appreciates shopping at downtown boutiques and taking her dogs to Red Mountain Park. They both share a love for Birmingham’s vibrant culture and community.
Closing Thoughts
As they move forward in their roles, both Jen and Walton express a deep gratitude for their work and the people they encounter. “The people we get to work with are such a gift to us,” Walton remarked, while Jen added that success comes not from competition but collaboration. “Always make a seat at the table,” she encouraged, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity in both life and business.
With an unwavering commitment to fostering community and supporting local talent, Jen Dent and Walton Foster are undoubtedly paving the way for a brighter future for Birmingham through their work at Chalker Group.
