OpenAI, currently holding the title of the most valuable U.S. startup
In a surprising twist of events, Sam Altman is set to reclaim the role of Chief Executive Officer at OpenAI, signaling the end of a tumultuous week following his sudden dismissal from the AI startup he co-founded.
OpenAI, has unveiled a preliminary agreement for Altman’s return, coupled with a substantial overhaul of its board. The reshuffling involves the removal of several members who faced intense scrutiny over their recent decision to remove Altman.
The newly crafted board now includes notable figures such as former Salesforce co-CEO Bret Taylor, former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Larry Summers, and Quora founder Adam D’Angelo. Taking the helm as the board chair is Taylor.
Last week’s decision prompted swift action from Microsoft, a major investor with over $11 billion poured into OpenAI and a nearly 49% ownership stake. Microsoft promptly recruited Altman to lead a new AI group within its vast conglomerate. The abrupt decision triggered the resignation of Greg Brockman, former President of OpenAI, and a host of other members who vociferously opposed the board’s actions. Brockman, who had also joined Microsoft, is now making a return to OpenAI.
Altman, expressing his sentiments on the matter, stated, “I love OpenAI, and everything I’ve done over the past few days has been in service of keeping this team and its mission intact.” While acknowledging that joining Microsoft seemed the optimal path initially, Altman is eager to return to OpenAI with the backing of the new board and Microsoft’s support.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, disappointed by the prior board’s decision, welcomes the recent changes to the OpenAI board, considering it a pivotal step toward more stable governance. Nadella reaffirms Microsoft’s commitment to collaborating with Altman and Brockman, underscoring the significance of their roles in ensuring OpenAI’s sustained success.
In earlier interviews, Nadella hinted at potential collaboration with Altman and Brockman, regardless of their OpenAI status. Microsoft remains steadfast in its dedication to the startup, which, through its ChatGPT platform, has garnered global attention and significantly bolstered Microsoft’s AI initiatives.
OpenAI, at the forefront of the AI race, has become a linchpin for startups building on its software offerings. The previous board, under public scrutiny for its abrupt decision, is now undergoing a transformation with the inclusion of figures like Taylor, D’Angelo, and Summers
Despite potential legal actions explored by frustrated OpenAI investors against the previous board, there is palpable optimism surrounding Altman’s return. Joshua Kushner, founder of Thrive Capital and a key OpenAI backer, envisions the startup as having the “potential to be one of the most consequential companies in the history of computing.”
Emmett Shear, former Twitch CEO and interim leader of OpenAI, expresses satisfaction with the recent decision, stating, “I’m glad to have played a part in the solution,” and commends the resilience and strength demonstrated by the entire OpenAI team in recent days.
