In a bold testament to innovation, leadership, and the rise of women in executive roles, Kim Ito, Chief Marketing Officer at Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA), has been named to the prestigious 2025 list of Automotive News' 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry. This accolade honors the industry's most influential female executives who are making groundbreaking decisions and transforming the landscape of automotive marketing and technology.

Ito’s recognition marks a proud milestone not just for MMNA, but for women in the automotive world. Since joining the company in 2016, she has spearheaded a suite of dynamic campaigns that continue to set new benchmarks for digital engagement and customer experience. Her work includes the first-ever vehicle launch on Amazon Live with the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander, the industry’s first real-time cinematic configurator in partnership with ZeroLight in 2023, and the creation of ClickShop 2.0—MMNA’s 24-hour digital showroom that bridges the gap from online browsing to dealership visits.

Kim Ito's influence runs deep, shaping MMNA's marketing and retailing strategy with a bold, tech-forward vision. As the first woman to serve as CMO at MMNA, her rise through the ranks—from director to vice president and now chief marketing officer—mirrors the company’s own transformation. Her leadership has been instrumental in delivering innovative marketing communications, managing customer lifecycles, and elevating the Mitsubishi brand across North America.

“Kim has earned her place among the very best in our industry,” said MMNA CEO Mark Chaffin. “She embodies the spirit of our Momentum 2030 business plan, setting global standards in digital marketing while championing innovation. With one all-new or significantly refreshed Mitsubishi model launching every year from 2026 through 2030, Kim and her team will be at the forefront of our evolving brand journey.”

Ito’s career began before MMNA, with impactful work at QANTAS Airways, where she led integrated marketing campaigns across the Americas. She holds a master’s degree in English Literature from California State University, Los Angeles, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Riverside.

Reflecting on her honor, Ito shared, “Being included in the 100 Leading Women list is truly humbling. I owe everything to the incredible team at MMNA, our leadership, and most importantly, my family—my husband and two kids—who support me unconditionally. To the many mothers and professionals on this list, I see you and celebrate you.”

With nearly half of MMNA’s executive leadership team comprised of women, the company stands out in a traditionally male-dominated industry. MMNA's commitment to diversity, innovation, and digital excellence is reshaping how automotive brands connect with consumers—making leaders like Kim Ito the future of mobility.

The honorees will be celebrated at a gala event in Dearborn, Michigan on May 20, and the full list appears in the May 19 issue of Automotive News, a trusted source in the automotive world since 1925.

For more information about Mitsubishi’s current lineup and innovation roadmap, visit MitsubishiCars.com.