The Rise of Michiko Kato: Toyota’s New Female CEO and CIO

Tokyo native Michiko Kato has taken on one of her most significant challenges yet: becoming Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Toyota’s Woven Capital and CEO of Toyota Invention Partners. This appointment marks an important milestone for both Kato, who previously left a stable career in finance to pursue startup life, and the automotive giant as it pivots towards innovation.

Woven Capital is Toyota's growth-stage venture capital arm focused on backing founders building solutions in mobility sectors such as space technology, cybersecurity, and autonomous driving. Fund II of Woven Capital was announced last August with a $800 million investment aimed at supporting at least 20 new Series B investments.

“We are looking for the future leaders of mobility,” Kato explained during her official announcement on Wednesday. “Our goal is to identify companies that can become collaboration partners with Toyota, whether through co-leading initiatives or making strategic investments.”

A Visionary Approach to Innovation

Kato’s background in finance and her transition into the startup world have equipped her well for this role. She believes in a flexible approach where Woven Capital can either lead an investment round, make smaller bets, or participate more aggressively depending on each company's needs.

“We try to be very nimble,” Kato said. “Our strategy is about finding the right companies and then supporting them through various stages of their growth.”

The portfolio includes notable ventures like Xona, a satellite technology firm, and Machina Labs, which focuses on defense manufacturing infrastructure. These investments reflect Toyota’s broader vision to integrate advanced technologies into its core business areas.

Breaking Barriers in Automotive Innovation

Kato's appointment as the first female CEO of a wholly owned Toyota subsidiary is significant not only for her but also for gender diversity within the tech industry and automotive sector. Her background in finance, combined with her new role at Woven Capital, highlights how traditional industries are embracing more diverse perspectives to drive innovation.

“Toyota has always been committed to fostering an inclusive environment,” Kato noted. “I am excited about this opportunity because it allows me to contribute my experience and help shape the future of mobility.”