At Helm of ‘Uber 2.0,’ New CEO Eyes IPO in 2019
Uber’s new chief executive has his eyes on the public market.
Dara Khosrowshahi, the ride-hailing giant’s replacement for cofounder Travis Kalanick, could push Uber into an IPO as soon as 2019, according to sources cited in the Wall Street Journal.
At his first meeting as CEO of Uber, the 48-year-old Khosrowshahi suggested an IPO timeline of 18 to 36 months.
More immediate, though, will be Khosrowshahi’s work on changing the company’s toxic corporate culture.
Benchmark, a major investor in Uber that spurred the removal of Kalanick from a position of power, said Khosrowshahi will usher in “Uber 2.0.”
However, not all is over: Benchmark remains in a legal battle with Kalanick as it vies to further strip him of lingering influence by giving up his role as director of his board seats.
It has been a turbulent year for Uber. Kalanick was accused of sexual harassment and Uber settled a federal lawsuit that was filed after the company failed to protect the private information of its riders and drivers. But despite company infighting and public lawsuits, Uber still hit significant milestones, including its five billionth trip.
