Colgate-Palmolive has appointed Iraklis "Kli" Pappas as its AI evangelist to modernize the 220-year-old toothpaste maker's operations. Pappas joins the consumer goods giant at a pivotal moment when traditional companies are racing to integrate artificial intelligence beyond basic productivity tools. His mission focuses on expanding AI usage throughout the organization.

Pappas aims to move employees past using AI for simple tasks like polishing emails and toward more transformative applications. The company's decision to create this evangelist role signals a strategic push to embed AI deeply into Colgate-Palmolive's business processes. This represents a significant cultural shift for the heritage brand.

The appointment reflects broader industry trends where legacy companies are investing heavily in AI talent to stay competitive. Pappas's role will be crucial in overcoming resistance and demonstrating AI's potential to improve everything from product development to supply chain management. His success could serve as a model for other traditional brands navigating digital transformation.