Home / Business and Economy / Wayve Hires Top Waymo Finance Chief for Autonomous Race
Wayve Hires Top Waymo Finance Chief for Autonomous Race
17 Sep
Summary
- Elisa de Martel, formerly Waymo's CFO, joins Wayve as its new CFO.
- Wayve utilizes a unique self-learning approach for autonomous driving software.
- The startup aims to deploy its technology in robotaxis and passenger vehicles.
Elisa de Martel has been hired as the Chief Financial Officer at the autonomous vehicle startup Wayve, taking over from Max Warburton, who will transition to a strategic advisory role. De Martel previously served as CFO at Alphabet's Waymo, from 2022 until January 2026, during which the company achieved commercial operations and raised significant funding.
Wayve, founded in 2017 and valued at approximately $8.5 billion, is progressing from development to deployment. The company has developed a unique self-learning software for automated driving, which relies on neural networks and data rather than high-definition maps or custom hardware. This technology is being adapted for both assisted-driving and fully automated systems.
The company's agnostic technology approach has attracted automakers, investors, and partners like Uber. Wayve has secured $3.2 billion in funding to date and established partnerships with manufacturers such as Nissan and Stellantis. Recent progress includes the launch of public rides in London with safety operators, and Tokyo is slated for a similar rollout.
De Martel's appointment underscores Wayve's pivotal moment as it aims for high-volume production and supply to the automotive sector. Her expertise in financial strategy, planning, and deep tech is expected to guide Wayve's commercial and strategic growth.
