Future of Uber CEO unclear following accusations sexism, sexual harassment

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Ride hailing service Uber has lost yet another top executive, the result of fallout over accusations of sexism and sexual harassment at its San Francisco headquarters.

There could be one more shoe to drop, involving its CEO, Travis Kalanick, whose status remains unclear.

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Senior Vice President Emil Michael departed Sunday after Uber's board accepted a list of recommendations from former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder.

Uber has been rocked by accusations that it has fostered a climate of sexism and sexual harassment.

Start-up's have generally been guided by venture capitalists and a board of directors, who bring experience. However, Santa Clara University finance professor Robert Hendershott points out some board members have more power than others.

RELATED: Uber CEO calls for investigation after report of sexual harassment

"What's happening today, is a new form of governance where it's not clear the CEO of these very successful, very high profile start-up's are accountable to anybody," said Hendershott.

Uber has grown fast, operating in 75 countries with more than 14,000 employees. But not addressing its problems can impact its finances.

"Today it has real bottom line impact due to bigger fines and more lawsuits, but it also has a big impact on the interest of workers in working for such a firm," said Kirk Hanson with Markkula Center for Applied Ethics.

Departing executive Emil Michael did issue a statement that did not acknowledge any failure, saying, "I have been committed to building a diverse business team... one that is welcoming to people of all genders, sexual orientations, national origins and educational backgrounds."

The list of recommendations is expected to be released to employees tomorrow.

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