Manchester-based taxi software giant Autocab has announced the appointment of Frans Hiemstra as its new Chief Executive Officer. Hiemstra, a seasoned executive from Uber, will lead the company as it seeks to expand its international footprint and further integrate its technology within the global transport landscape.
A New Chapter for Autocab
Hiemstra joins Autocab following a successful decade-long career at Uber, where he most recently served as the Regional General Manager for the Middle East and Africa. His extensive background in managing large-scale operations across diverse international markets is expected to be a major asset for Autocab’s growth strategy.
He succeeds Safa Alkateb, who has led the Manchester firm since 2012. Under Alkateb’s 14-year tenure, Autocab transformed from a local software provider into a global industry leader, eventually leading to its acquisition by Uber in 2020. Alkateb will officially step down at the end of June to pursue new entrepreneurial challenges.
Strengthening Independent Fleets
Despite being owned by Uber, Autocab remains an independent business unit. Its core mission continues to be providing dispatch and booking technology to independent taxi and private hire operators.
Hiemstra expressed his enthusiasm for the role:
“Autocab is a brilliant independent British business. Over the last 10 years, I’ve seen first-hand how transformative their technology can be. There’s a strong opportunity ahead to invest in Autocab as we work to help even more independent taxi companies across the world scale and grow.”
Manchester’s Tech Hub
The leadership change comes at a time when Autocab is deeply rooted in the Manchester tech scene. The company recently moved its headquarters to the Circle Square development in the city centre, a move designed to attract top-tier tech talent and foster collaboration in a post-pandemic world.
With Hiemstra at the helm, the company aims to accelerate its product roadmap and enhance its iGo network, which connects local fleets to global demand partners, ensuring independent operators can compete in an increasingly digital marketplace.
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