The Royal Bank of Canada has launched an official artificial intelligence team that intends to help train the financial titan’s workforce of 100,000 employees on the rising technology.
RBC, the country’s largest publicly traded company and major national employer, predicts a “future where AI will play a greater role” in the “day-to-day work” of staff.
Their response is one of the most ambitious upskilling initiatives to date in Canada.
Working “closely with HR and Learning teams,” the new AI group will ensure adoption includes equipping the company’s vast quantity of employees with training, tools, and support to leverage the full potential of emerging technologies.
Currently, about 27,000 employees use RBC Assist, according to data from the bank, while 8,000 Capital Markets employees utilize Aiden, RBC’s proprietary AI employee assistant tool.
AI is a “generational technology,” according to the bank’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Kelly Bradley, that “enables us to reimagine what is possible.”
Bradley envisions AI “acting as a key tool helping employees to make better decisions, uncover opportunities, focus on higher-impact work, and grow their skills for the future.”
“That’s why we have prioritized AI fluency with our executives and rolled out training and tools to help all employees adapt, learn, and stay curious as AI becomes part of how we work,” the HR executive said.
The AI team itself is founded on specific expertise.
“With almost a decade of investment in AI talent, RBC is perfectly positioned to unlock the full potential of our people,” stated Bradley.
Powered by “top AI talent,” the newly established team reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer, according to a statement from RBC.
RBC “has spent the past decade investing in AI,” says CEO Dave McKay, including “exceptional talent.”
This includes new group head Bruce Ross, who spent 12 years as Group Head of RBC Technology & Operations.
Naim Kazmi, former EVP of Commercial Core Banking & Payments Technology at RBC, moves into Ross’ former role.
