Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi Steps Down from Aurora Innovation's Board

Dara Khosrowshahi Steps Down from Aurora Innovation's Board to Focus on Uber

In a move signaling a strategic shift in his priorities, Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, has stepped down from his position on Aurora Innovation's board of directors. According to a regulatory filing submitted on Friday, Khosrowshahi stated that his decision reflects a desire to focus on his responsibilities at Uber and reduce his commitments to external boards.

The resignation took effect last Tuesday and, according to Aurora, was not related to any disagreement with the company.

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A Longstanding Connection Between Uber and Aurora

The relationship between Uber and Aurora Innovation runs deep. In 2020, Uber transferred its autonomous vehicle unit, Uber ATG, to Aurora as part of a deal that included a $400 million investment and gave Uber a 26% stake in the combined company. Khosrowshahi joined Aurora’s board as a result of this agreement.

Uber has maintained its connection with Aurora through Uber Freight, its freight brokerage platform that links carriers with shippers. Earlier this year, the two companies announced a multi-year partnership to integrate trucks powered by Aurora’s technology into the Uber Freight network.

However, Uber’s relationship with Aurora is not exclusive. The company also collaborates with Waabi, an autonomous trucking startup founded by Raquel Urtasun, former chief scientist and head of R&D at Uber ATG.

New Leadership at Aurora

Replacing Khosrowshahi on Aurora’s board is Shailen Bhatt, senior vice president and chief operating officer at AtkinsRéalis. Bhatt brings prior experience from the Federal Highway Administration.

Khosrowshahi’s resignation comes weeks after Nolan Shenai, Aurora’s general counsel, announced he would step down effective January 6, 2025. Aurora’s president, Ossa Fisher, will temporarily take over Shenai’s responsibilities while the company searches for his replacement.

What’s Next for Aurora and Uber?

With a renewed focus on his role as CEO, Khosrowshahi aims to strengthen Uber’s strategy while Aurora adjusts its leadership team to tackle new challenges in autonomous technology.

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