App Drivers’ and Couriers’ Union appoints new leadership as private hire pay and safety concerns raised
- Perry Richardson
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
The App Drivers’ and Couriers’ Union (ADCU) has elected Cristina-Georgiana Ioanitescu as its new General Secretary, with Farah Musa appointed President after both candidates were elected unopposed.
Ioanitescu previously served as ADCU President and continues to work as a professional chauffeur. The union said the appointment reflects its long-standing approach that members of the ADCU National Executive Committee remain active drivers while holding office.
According to the union, this structure is intended to ensure its leadership remains connected to the day-to-day realities faced by private hire drivers, courier workers and other app-based platform workers operating across the UK.
Ioanitescu’s election also comes just days before International Women’s Day on 8 March. The ADCU noted that around 95% of its membership is male, marking her appointment as a notable moment for representation within the organisation.
Leadership change comes ahead of International Women’s Day as union highlights working conditions faced by app-based drivers and couriers.
In a statement following the result, Ioanitescu outlined the issues she intends to prioritise in the role. She said: “Drivers across the UK are working under immense pressure, with falling pay, growing insecurity, and almost no meaningful protections. Our immediate priorities in the weeks and months ahead are clear: we must fight for fair pay, challenge unfair algorithmic management, demand proper rights and protections, and ensure companies are held accountable for the conditions they impose on workers.”
She also pointed to safety concerns experienced by drivers in the sector, particularly women working in passenger transport and delivery roles.
“As a woman driver, I am acutely aware of the additional risks women face, from sexual harassment to concerns about safety simply while doing our jobs,” Ioanitescu said. “These issues sit within a broader crisis of protection for all drivers, and we will not tolerate a system that leaves any worker, male or female, exposed and unprotected. On the eve of International Women’s Day, I am proud to lead a union committed to changing that reality.”
Farah Musa, who previously served as the union’s BAME Officer, has taken on the role of President. In comments released alongside the announcement, Musa said he looked forward to working with Ioanitescu and the National Executive Committee as the union continues to expand its national campaigns and support for members.
