Uber-backed technology business appoints new Chief Operating Officer

Cheadle-headquartered taxi technology business, Autocab, which was acquired by rideshare giant Uber last year, has announced the appointment of Mike Russell as Chief Operating Officer.

Russell joins the business, which provides mobile apps and software for independent taxi companies in over 30 countries, after a string of senior roles within the travel sector. Previous posts include roles as Group Chief Executive Officer for Comtec Holdings, Chief Executive Officer for Vertical Systems and most recently as Chief Operating Officer for Open Destinations.

At Autocab, Russell will be support the technology business’ continued overseas expansion and managing how it serves customers. Speaking on his appointment as Chief Operating Officer, Mike Russell said:

“Autocab has a brilliant team which has enabled it to be such a success story over the last thirty years. Implementing complex, central, systems in any business is a major endeavour and the key to success is having strong relationships at all levels. I look forward to meeting Autocab’s customers around the world and to building strong and rewarding relationships with them.”

CEO of the Uber-owned technology company, Safa Alkateb commented:

“Mike has a solid understanding of global operations, go-to-market strategy, and customer satisfaction, and a proven track record of maximising the growth potential of a range of businesses.

“I’m delighted to welcome someone of Mike’s calibre as our new Chief Operating Officer and have every confidence that he will provide the leadership and rigour to enable us to deliver against one of our most important strategic priorities.”

Autocab was established in 1989, and headquartered in Cheadle since 2007. The business operates across 30 countries with its services deployed in over 400 cities worldwide, with over over 170 employees. The company was acquired by US rideshare firm Uber in 2021, and in January announced plans to relocate its headquarters into Manchester city centre.