Talented Lawyers + Professional Development + Immersion in the Toyota Way = Counsel in Motion
To address the gap, Toyota launched Counsel in Motion, a trailblazing professional development program for diverse attorneys from our company’s partnering law firms.
Toyota Legal Divisions launched Counsel in Motion in August 2022 after listening to partner firms’ concerns about the challenges of retaining diverse law associates after the first few years of employment.
To help more talented young lawyers see a continued future for themselves in the profession, the six-month program offers four distinctive components:
One-on-one mentoring with a Toyota attorney to enhance professional growth
Business skills development and pitch practice with nationally acclaimed thought leaders
Design thinking and a legal “hackathon” to identify creative solutions to challenging D&I problems
In-depth learning with Toyota executives about Toyota’s history, philosophy, business and strategy
15 diverse law associates from Toyota’s partnering law firms were selected for the inaugural Counsel in Motion cohort through a rigorous and competitive application process.
On top of professional development, the cohort has also bonded as a group, forming supportive peer relationships that are especially critical for underrepresented individuals.
Immersion in the Toyota Way creates a rare opportunity for participants to deepen their client knowledge and relationships. This increases the value they bring to their law firms while also growing their job satisfaction and passion.
Participant
“The Toyota Counsel in Motion program is truly one of a kind. Not only did we learn more about Toyota as a business, we learned key presentation skills and career strategies specifically targeted at diverse attorneys. It was definitely worth the time committed.”
Jessica Dent
Law Associate, Counsel in Motion Participant
Mentor
“Counsel in Motion was fantastic! I am so proud to be part of a company and legal team that is willing to put in the time and hard work necessary to provide diverse senior associates with the tools needed for their career development and advancement.”
Kwame Satchell
Managing Counsel, Labor & Employment, Toyota Motor North America
Executive Sponsor
“Counsel in Motion is a unique way to help inspire the next generation of passionate, engaged professionals who will make our business and world better.”
Jane Howard-Martin
TL1 Diversity Committee Chair and Vice President, Labor & Employment/Plant Support, Toyota Motor North America Committee