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US: Uber assembles advisory board of international power brokers

 |  May 5, 2016

Black-cab drivers are famous for boasting about notable passengers – but they’ve got nothing on the cabbie’s nemesis, Uber.

The taxi-booking app has quietly picked up an entire minibus load of global power brokers to join an “advisory board”, which held its first meeting this week.

Its recruitment of this crack team of influential names comes with the company fighting public policy battles on multiple fronts. Bumps in the road include concerns about multiple lawsuits, opposition from the traditional taxi industry, alleged foul play against rival Lyft and even full-blown bans on the service in some cities.

Uber’s new council of sages will be expected to help the company win arguments in the corridors of power. Among the most important luminaries are some who should give the company a direct line into the White House.

Members of the advisory board include Ray LaHood, the US secretary of transportation from 2009 to 2013. Melody Barnes, who previously served as director of the domestic policy council at the White House, is another member.

David Plouffe, who advised Barack Obama between 2011 and 2013, is a strategic adviser who knows more than most about swaying public opinion, having helped to mastermind the US president’s successful campaigns.

Speaking after this week’s inaugural meeting Plouffe, Uber’s chief adviser, said: “We had vibrant discussions about every aspect of our business and the unique challenges and opportunities Uber faces around the world. We’re already benefiting greatly from the wisdom and savvy of our board members.”

The council also includes Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud, a Saudi princess and philanthropist who has been one of the country’s most vocal advocates for women’s rights.

Full Content: DW

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