Recode Decode: Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi (Live at Code 2018)

Unexpected Appointment

Dara Khosrowshahi's journey to becoming Uber's CEO was unexpected and filled with surprises. Initially, he didn't believe he would get the job, competing against industry giants while content with his role at Expedia. His wife was confident in his potential, even betting on his success, which he won when Ariana Huffington informed him of his appointment while he was grocery shopping 1. Reflecting on his transition, Dara shared, "I wasn't interested in getting a job because I had a great job. I was interested in doing this if I was the right person for it" 2.

   

Early Challenges

Upon taking the helm at Uber, Dara Khosrowshahi faced significant challenges, particularly in redefining the gig economy's landscape. He emphasized the need to provide benefits and insurance for independent workers, aiming to elevate their status from "second class citizens" to empowered individuals 3. Dara also focused on improving the driver experience, launching a new driver app developed in collaboration with drivers to address their concerns about earnings and benefits 4. He stated, "The face of Uber is the person sitting in the front seat," highlighting the importance of driver satisfaction in Uber's success.