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Uber Appoints Balaji Krishnamurthy as New CFO

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  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 12:34 GMT by moneycontrol.com
      Locales: INDIA, UNITED STATES

San Francisco, CA - February 4th, 2026 - Uber announced today a significant shift in its financial leadership, confirming Balaji Krishnamurthy's promotion to Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective March 18th, 2026. This move, while initially announced in early 2024, has now fully materialized following a carefully planned transition period, signaling a continued focus on fiscal discipline and strategic growth for the ride-sharing and delivery giant. Outgoing CFO Nelson Chai, who joined Uber in 2021, will transition to an advisory role, assisting the company with ongoing financial projects and ensuring a seamless handover of responsibilities.

Krishnamurthy's appointment is particularly noteworthy given his proven track record of success within Uber's high-growth India and South Asia region. Since assuming the role of Senior Vice President and CFO of Uber India and South Asia, he has been credited with architecting financial strategies that fueled substantial expansion in these key markets. This included navigating complex regulatory landscapes, optimizing operational efficiency, and driving profitability in a region characterized by fierce competition and rapidly evolving consumer behavior.

Expansion in India & South Asia: A Model for Global Growth?

Uber's success in India and South Asia has become increasingly central to the company's overall global strategy. The region represents a significant portion of Uber's future growth potential, driven by a burgeoning middle class, increasing smartphone penetration, and a growing demand for convenient and affordable transportation options. Krishnamurthy's deep understanding of these markets, coupled with his expertise in financial management, positions him ideally to replicate this success on a global scale.

Analysts suggest that Uber is looking to implement strategies successfully deployed in India and South Asia - such as localized pricing models, partnerships with local businesses, and a focus on multi-modal transportation - in other emerging markets and even within mature markets seeking cost-effective solutions. This isn't simply about cutting costs; it's about creating sustainable, profitable growth tailored to specific regional needs.

Chai's Legacy and the Future of Uber's Finances

Nelson Chai's tenure as CFO was marked by a period of significant transformation for Uber. He played a critical role in steering the company towards profitability after years of heavy investment in expansion and technological development. Chai focused heavily on cost reduction, improved financial forecasting, and strengthening Uber's balance sheet - foundational elements that have positioned the company for long-term sustainability.

His move to an advisory role suggests Uber values his expertise and intends to leverage his experience during this next phase of growth. While the specific nature of Chai's advisory work remains undisclosed, industry observers expect him to focus on strategic financial planning, risk management, and investor relations.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Despite recent successes, Uber faces ongoing challenges. Competition from rival ride-sharing companies remains intense, and the company continues to navigate the complexities of regulating autonomous vehicle technology and addressing concerns related to driver classification and worker benefits.

However, Uber also has significant opportunities for growth. The expansion of its delivery services (Uber Eats) continues to be a major revenue driver, and the company is exploring new ventures in areas such as freight transportation and micromobility. Krishnamurthy's experience in identifying and capitalizing on growth opportunities will be crucial as Uber diversifies its business and expands into new markets.

The coming years will likely see an increased emphasis on artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize Uber's operations, enhance customer experience, and improve financial forecasting. Krishnamurthy's financial acumen, combined with his understanding of the nuances of emerging markets, is expected to be instrumental in driving these initiatives and ensuring Uber remains a leader in the rapidly evolving transportation and delivery landscape.