How AI is Reshaping the Future of Work at Kellanova

The company is using AI to enhance productivity, connectivity, and curiosity.

Kellanova SVP and Chief Digital and Information Officer, Lesley Salmon, shares insights on the company’s strategies.
Kellanova SVP and Chief Digital and Information Officer, Lesley Salmon, shares insights on the company’s strategies.
Kellanova

At Kellanova, glimpses of a future shaped by artificial intelligence (AI) are already beginning to emerge. The company is building on its prior investments and placing people at the center of its transformation—equipping them with tools that enhance productivity, connectivity, and curiosity.

Kellanova has deployed an AI-powered chat assistant, Copilot for the web, designed to support employees in their daily tasks. This tool helps users be more creative, sharpen their skills, and accomplish work faster—without compromising company security or confidentiality. Teams across the company are using Copilot for tasks such as researching specific topics, brainstorming, and generating first drafts.

Kellanova hosts regular “Kuriosity Clinics” that are open to all employees, regardless of title, function, or location. These clinics provide a space to explore and better understand the benefits of Generative AI-powered tools like Copilot. More than 10,000 employees have voluntarily participated, contributing ideas and engaging in discussions.

Ramesh Kollepara, Kellanova’s Global Chief Technology Officer, said “It’s an exciting time to be in IT and in business as AI—whether Generative AI or newer agentic AI variations—continues to evolve rapidly, creating opportunities to accelerate speed to market, drive new product development, and foster creativity and innovation."

Kellanova has been on a digital journey for years, and that long-term strategy is yielding results. Its ‘Better Data, Bigger Possibilities’ framework is grounded in transparency, accountability, and collaboration, aiming to empower employees with a comprehensive approach to value creation through data.

Loretta Franks, Kellanova’s Chief Data and Analytics Officer, said “Our Bigger Data, Better Possibilities Framework and the enterprise-wide 'Kortex' data and analytics platform have ensured Kellanova’s IT team remains at the forefront of advanced technologies, data strategies, and AI initiatives that add value, enhance processes, and elevate consumer and customer experiences."

At Kellanova, the IT team has been collaborating with commercial and supply chain divisions to implement predictive analytics via digital twins that streamline operations. Notable efforts include:

  • Using digital twins to virtually test and optimize new technologies—such as the paper Pringles can—before scaling up manufacturing in Europe.
  • Empowering the R&D team with RealWear Navigator 520, a ruggedized, hands-free assisted reality device, integrated with Microsoft Teams.
  • Deploying handheld tablets at manufacturing plants to provide line operators with real-time data and production insights.

Kellanova is also making consistent progress on the AI agent maturity curve, moving from isolated pilot programs to the strategic deployment of AI agents across various business functions.

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