TEAM MEMBERS

Kenichi Moriwaki (Ph.D)

Ken joined HCM in 2023 to accelerate corporate venturing activities, bringing 10+ years of experience in global open innovation. Prior to joining HCM, Ken worked as the head of Open Innovation Hub at FUJIFILM global, Japan, US, and Europe. He is a serial intrapreneur for new business development for construction material, industrial material, and medical material in Shanghai. He won the 1st prize at business acceleration program pitch at Silicon Valley VC. He based in the U.S. Silicon Valley and Boston, and experienced new business creation with local startups.

Violinist and Venture Capitalist

Kaoru Kobayashi

During his time as a VC, Kaoru focused on investing in high-growth startups in telecom infrastructure, mobile, data centers, and mobility, leveraging deep technical expertise gained from the semiconductor industry. Based on business development experience informed by industry standardization and market trends, he aims to co-create new value in collaboration with startups.

Stephen Daff

Stephen Daff brings over 10 years of global automotive experience to the leadership team at LANDCROS Innovation Studios, where he invests in and partners with startups to unlock new value. His career has been defined by bridging cultures, industries, and technologies, offering a practical, cross-sector perspective to every partnership. Stephen’s passion is to connect ambitious startups with the resources, networks, and expertise of Hitachi Construction Machinery and its global partners. He believes that innovation flourishes with diverse perspectives, where teams unite to solve industry challenges—whether by piloting new solutions, co-developing technology, or opening doors to new markets. Known for his hands-on approach and ability to navigate complexity, Stephen is committed to making collaboration straightforward and impactful. He thrives on uncovering untapped opportunities, supporting founders as they scale, and ensuring that innovation delivers measurable value for both startups and industry leaders. Stephen is always looking to meet teams who are ready to build the next generation of solutions for a smarter, more sustainable world.

Nobuhiro Murase

Leveraging proven engagement in machinery sales with over 1,000 work sites across arterial and venous sectors, he is redefining what's possible—turning frontline needs into next-generation solutions. While working on business development at HCM, he was selected as one of 25 winners through a pitch event in Japanese government program to foster the next generation of global innovators as part of the "Bridge Project between Silicon Valley and Japan". Holding MBA.

Yoshiaki Kanayama

Brings expertise in leading large-scale CRM and after-sales service system projects for the manufacturing sector, with a strong focus on operational processes and digital transformation. Recognized for connecting innovative startup solutions with internal business needs, enabling open innovation and driving sustainable growth.