Bakari Brock
Senior Director
City Partnerships | Lyft Inc.
Age: 38
- Alma Mater: University of Georgia (BA, Finance & Banking); Harvard Law School (JD)
- Favorite Aircraft: A380
- Favorite Book: Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond
- Favorite TV Show: Game of Thrones
- Favorite Movie: Moonlight
- Favorite Hobbies: Snowboarding, Travel, Reading
In his nomination, Bakari Brock is credited with single handedly transforming Lyft's airport operations into one of the most profitable and effective divisions within the company. It was noted that his efforts have dramatically increased Lyft's market share throughout the country and enabled the company to gain a foothold in major cities that had previously proved elusive.
“I take a lot of joy in working with our airport and airline partners to deliver a great experience to our mutual customers,” said Brock. “Solving puzzles around operational, technical, and regulatory issues can sometimes be difficult, but it’s amazing to see how our solutions can have such a far-reaching, positive impact on millions of travelers.”
Brock credits his 11 years working in Silicon Valley — including stints at Twitter and YouTube — to where he is today in his career. “It’s a desire to make a real impact on our daily lives that lead me to transportation - and to Lyft,” he said.
He cites a project done with AAAE and San Francisco International Airport as one he’s particularly proud of. “Almost four years ago, I had the pleasure of working with AAAE and SFO to establish reasonable yet robust data sharing standards for the rideshare industry,” he said. “I think this was pivotal in earning trust within the industry, and that framework continues to exist today.”
Aviation is what connects people to the places they love, said Brock. “It gives us the ability to see friends, family and places that inspire us,” he said. “It also enables us to make important business decisions and connections, or to rapidly respond to those in need. It’s all connected largely in part by aviation.”
In the future, Brock would like to see continued partnership with the tech community to drive the best and most seamless experience possible for travelers. “The solutions we’re able to deliver to travelers when we collaborate are incredible,” he said.
