Barney Harford

Barney Merrick Harford (born 1972) is a British–American technology executive. Harford is a member of the board of directors for United Airlines and RealSelf.

Biography Early life and family Harford was born in Greenwich, England, and raised in Manchester. He has a sister who is three years younger. His mother, Lindsay S. Harford, was the director of planning and development at the Learning and Skills Council in Cumbria. His father, Ian G. M. Harford was the regional director in Manchester of the Workers’ Educational Association, which provides adult vocational and other courses. When he was young, he wanted to be a travel photographer or a physicist. Harford was educated at Manchester Grammar School. He took a year off between high school and college, when he worked for a nuclear power company, using ultrasound to find cracks in power stations and also learned the French language and was a ski instructor in the French Alps. In 2018, he received $47.6 million in compensation. He left Uber in June 2019.

Controversies In 2018, Harford commented that two black women in an advertisement looked the same because of their haircuts. Harford later told colleagues that he regretted his phrasing but was said to have made other similar comments about women and minorities.

Personal life Harford is married to Expedia executive Alexandra Birnbaum. They live in Chicago and have a son. Harford is an adventure traveler and enjoys mountaineering and kite surfing in remote locations.