Ola ropes in former Vodafone CEO Arun Sarin to fight Uber

A day after US-based company Uber announced a $50 million investment in Hyderabad to set up a centre, its local rival Ola appointed former Vodafone Group CEO Arun Sarin on its board as an Independent Director.

Bangalore-based firm Ola, the country's fastest growing mobile app for cabs and taxies, is looking to expand in the coming years, reported the Economic Times.

Experts are of the view that Ola is planning to take on the global giants like Uber in India and professionals like Sarin, who have more than 30 years of global management experience, can make a difference.

Ola CEO and co-founder Bhavish Aggarwal, told ET: "Sarin brings a global perspective and a strong understanding of emerging markets like India. His experience in management and in growing large companies is invaluable to Ola."

The former Vodafone CEO would contribute in an advisory role to Ola's overall business strategy that would further drive growth and leadership of the firm, the company said in a statement today.

Sarin was Vodafone's director between 2003 and 2008 and proved to be crucial in the firm's expansion in the emerging markets including India and Africa. He has also served on several boards including Bank of England and KKR.

"Ola is creating immense value in the transportation and mobility space in India. The company has scaled rapidly to benefit customers and partners using technology and innovative business models," said Sarin.

Earlier this year, Ola bought TaxiForSure for $200 million in one of India's biggest e-commerce deals. The company is targetting 20 million customers by the year end.
(Image: Indiatimes)