Dara Khosrowshahi transitioned from a childhood refugee fleeing the 1978 Iranian Revolution to managing some of the most prominent technology firms in the United States. His career trajectory spans from an investment banking analyst at Allen & Company to his current role as the Chief Executive Officer of the ride-hailing company Uber.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1969 in Tehran, Khosrowshahi was raised in a wealthy family involved in the Alborz Investment Company. Following the family's migration to Tarrytown, New York, he attended the Hackley School and subsequently graduated from Brown University in 1991 with a degree in electrical and electronics engineering.
Transition to Corporate Leadership
After seven years as an analyst at Allen & Company, Khosrowshahi moved to USA Networks under Barry Diller. He later served as the chief financial officer of IAC, the company that acquired Expedia in 2001. In 2005, he assumed the role of CEO at Expedia Group, where he expanded the company’s international footprint and acquired brands such as Travelocity, Orbitz, and HomeAway.
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In 2017, Khosrowshahi became the second full-time CEO of Uber. He succeeded Travis Kalanick after a period of intense board deliberations and internal conflict. Upon his arrival, he prioritized internal restructuring by replacing Kalanick's 14 values with eight new standards focused on customer experience and corporate ethics.
Public Markets and Compensation
Khosrowshahi oversaw Uber's initial public offering in May 2019. His financial packages have remained significant, with his total compensation reaching $39.4 million in 2024. As of February 2025, his estimated net worth is at least $238 million. In September 2026, he initiated a 10% workforce reduction to focus on autonomous vehicle investment.
Political and Public Engagement
Khosrowshahi has engaged in political activity, supporting various Democratic candidates, including Dean Phillips and Patty Murray, while also donating to Republican Senator Mike Lee. His public remarks have occasionally prompted debate, notably a 2019 interview comparing the killing of Jamal Khashoggi to a self-driving car accident, a statement for which he later faced scrutiny.
Fast facts
- Born: 1969, Tehran, Iran
- Education: Brown University, Hackley School
- Previous Role: CEO of Expedia Group (2005-2017)
- Uber CEO Start: 2017
- 2024 Compensation: $39.4 million
- Citizenship: United States; Iran
Questions readers ask
What was Dara Khosrowshahi's previous major executive role?
He served as the CEO of Expedia Group from 2005 until 2017.
Where did he attend university?
He graduated from Brown University with a degree in electrical and electronics engineering in 1991.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Allen & Company, People Incorporated and Expedia Group
- Educated at Brown University and Hackley School
