KFC Canada’s HR team is using generative AI to streamline tasks, boost strategy, and drive engagement—without replacing jobs. Here’s how it’s working.
Gen AI at KFC Canada: Supporting HR, Not Replacing It
Generative AI is transforming HR at KFC Canada—not by eliminating jobs, but by enhancing human potential.
In a world where AI is rapidly reshaping the workforce, KFC Canada’s HR team is showing how new technologies can support—not supplant—people. With the backing of parent company Yum! Brands and in partnership with NVIDIA, KFC is rolling out AI tools that streamline day-to-day operations and empower HR professionals to focus on strategic value.
HR Least Affected by AI, Says ILO
A recent report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) ranked HR managers among the professions with “minimal exposure” to generative AI disruption. Unlike clerical roles in payroll and data entry, strategic positions like HR leadership are likely to evolve rather than vanish.
This finding aligns with the approach taken by Nick Dillman, Chief People Officer at KFC Canada, who sees AI as an enabler rather than a threat.
“It’s not about replacing people—it’s about freeing them up to focus on more strategic thinking,” says Dillman.
AI in Action: From Drafting to Strategy
KFC Canada’s HR team is using Microsoft Copilot to accelerate low-impact tasks like drafting job descriptions and internal documents. The tool allows staff to get a solid first draft in seconds, reducing time spent on mundane work and giving them more room for high-value contributions.
“We’re probably in the tail end of the learning curve now,” Dillman notes. “People are starting to see how it works and where it can add real value.”
Building Culture with Gen AI
A standout example comes from a team at KFC’s support centre. They used a generative AI prompt to build a culture and engagement calendar aligned with Canadian national observances.
“The AI suggested meaningful engagement moments based on cultural events across Canada,” says Dillman. “We still scrub and tailor the results, but it gives us a creative head start.”
These tools also aid in brainstorming strategies for employee experience and can integrate with internal documents to recommend new programs and improvements.
Upskilling, Not Downsizing
While AI exposure is higher in clerical HR roles—especially payroll—KFC Canada’s approach is to reclaim time and redeploy people to higher-impact work.
“We’re not eliminating jobs,” Dillman explains. “We’re making sure those who are most impacted grow their skill sets and stay valuable.”
This includes using AI for meeting notes, talent scheduling, and early-stage sentiment analysis through employee feedback. HR’s role becomes more data-informed, responsive, and agile.
Training and Trust: The Human Side of AI
Yum!’s AI Academy, launched in partnership with NVIDIA, trains employees on safe, secure, and effective AI use. AI training is now integrated into onboarding and compliance programs.
Importantly, usage of the tech is optional but encouraged.
“There’s no mandate,” Dillman stresses. “We’re just showing people how it helps and letting them decide how to apply it.”
HR + IT: A Crucial Partnership
Effective AI deployment at KFC Canada hinges on tight collaboration between HR and IT.
“We know what we’re trying to achieve from a people standpoint,” Dillman says, “and IT knows how to build it.”
New hybrid roles are emerging to bridge this gap—people who understand both tech and talent.
Preparing for the Future of Work
The ILO emphasizes that AI will shift job profiles, not eliminate most jobs. KFC Canada is preparing for that shift by hiring HR professionals who are digitally curious and innovation-minded.
“It’s not about being a tech expert,” Dillman says. “It’s about being willing to learn and evolve.”
That mindset is now essential for HR teams worldwide as AI becomes more deeply embedded in how people work.
Final Thought: Augmenting, Not Automating Away
KFC Canada’s use of generative AI shows how businesses can responsibly adopt new technologies. It’s not about doing less with fewer people—it’s about doing more with the same people, empowered by smarter tools.
