Uber Technologies, Inc. has announced the appointment of Nikesh Arora, Chairman and CEO of Palo Alto Networks, to its Board of Directors, effective May 31, 2025. The move brings a wealth of experience in technology, cybersecurity, finance, and global leadership to Uber as it continues its growth and innovation journey.
A Veteran Leader in Tech and Business
Arora, 57, currently leads Palo Alto Networks, one of the world’s foremost cybersecurity companies, a position he has held since 2018. His career spans some of the biggest names in global tech:
- SoftBank Group: Served as President and COO (2015–2016) and later as Vice Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Internet and Media.
- Google, Inc.: Held multiple senior roles from 2004 to 2014, including Senior Vice President and Chief Business Officer.
- Angel Investor & Advisor: Brief stint as an angel investor and advisor to SoftBank between 2016–2018.
Arora’s impressive boardroom presence extends to several high-profile companies. He currently sits on the board of Richemont, a Swiss luxury conglomerate, and has previously served on boards of Bharti Airtel, Colgate-Palmolive, Yahoo! Japan, Sprint, SoftBank, and Aviva plc.
Uber’s Perspective
According to Uber’s leadership, Arora brings critical value to the table.
“Nikesh is a globally respected business leader with deep experience across technology, finance, and cybersecurity,” said Ron Sugar, independent Chairperson of Uber’s Board.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi added, “Nikesh is one of the technology industry’s great executives: a strategic and disciplined operator, and a fierce competitor.”
Role and Compensation
Arora joins Uber’s nominating and governance committee and the compensation committee. In line with Uber’s non-employee director compensation plan, Arora will receive:
- A $60,000 annual cash retainer (prorated for his partial year),
- An annual grant of restricted stock units (RSUs) worth $300,000, also prorated,
- Additional compensation for committee service.
In his statement, Arora expressed optimism about Uber’s journey, saying he looks forward to contributing to its continued global success.