We’re thrilled to announce that Mitch Cooper has been appointed as Head of Public Policy and Government Affairs for Australia and New Zealand.

Joining the Uber ANZ leadership team, Mitch will be responsible for working with policymakers and third parties to help unlock the full potential of Uber’s technology for the cities where we operate, and to promote the case for positive change on behalf of our community of riders, consumers and partners.

Mitch first joined Uber in 2017 as Head of Policy in New Zealand, and has been responsible for Uber’s constructive engagement with policymakers there, including during the recent ridesharing reforms that extended the reach of safe, reliable and affordable transport options for travellers.

Mitch’s energy and optimism has been integral to Uber’s success in New Zealand. We’ve been impressed by his passion for innovation and ability to bring people together to solve problems, in addition to his policy expertise and well regarded counsel to the business. It is a fitting recognition of Mitch’s capabilities that he is stepping into this key strategic role.

Commenting on his appointment, Mitch said “Uber is changing the way our cities move. With teams at Uber working on new modalities and technologies from the future of food delivery to urban air travel, we have an exciting future ahead of us. I am looking forward to building strong and lasting relationships with stakeholders in the region, and to realising the best of our technology for our partners and everyone using our apps.”

Mitch’s experience spans public affairs, public policy, issues management and legal affairs. Mitch began his career as a lawyer at Webb Henderson, focused on regulatory, competition and policy matters, and before joining Uber worked in public policy and government affairs at Vodafone New Zealand. He holds a conjoint degree in arts and law from the University of Auckland and was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor in New Zealand in 2011.

Ann Lavin, Senior Director of Public Policy & Government Relations, Asia Pacific