HYPE Presents: 35 Under 35—Justin Tallio

HYPE (Hungry Young Professionals Engaging) is an ERG based at our Lousiville, Kentucky campus. They recently launched their 35 under 35 campaign which aims to highlight 35 young professionals from now until the end of the year who are making a difference in our company and practicing allyship. Learn more about Justin, Operations Innovation Engineering Manager for KFC US, below:

What is a recent achievement you wish to share?

Recently KFC was selected by University of Louisville as one of the top employers for our engineering co-op program that I coordinate. I started off my career at KFC as an engineering co-op and have been very involved with the program since I started in 2014. I am passionate about cultivating a safe environment that fosters learning and creativity for future engineers. I also just recently earned my second master’s degree in business administration.

How are you an ally/practicing allyship for an underrepresented community?

I am on a board of a community non-profit (Shelby Park Neighborhood Association) that advocates for affordable housing, community engagement, neighborhood safety, historic preservation, and youth outreach in the Shelby Park neighborhood of Louisville, Kentucky.

Who is an influential leader for you (outside of Yum/brand) and why?

Hamdi Ulukaya, CEO and Founder of Chobani is someone I look up to as a leader. He started life in Turkey in a farming family that made cheese and yogurt. He moved to the US to study, then started his own feta company and eventually started Chobani. Hamdi prioritizes the well-being of the people who work for him and is highly active in his community as well as multiple nonprofits. I strive every day to enhance the lives around me from my coworkers, the people in my community, and friends and family closest to me. I admire that Mr. Ulukaya has not lost sight of those values and too seems to work every day to make this world a better place.

Tell us something about yourself you would love to share

I have a pet pig named Piggy Smalls. She loves leftover pizza, taking dips in her piggy pool and reorganizing her hay stacks in the backyard!

What is your favorite menu item from any of our brands (KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell)?

Spicy Potato Soft Taco at Taco Bell! So glad they bought it back!