While expressing gratitude for Altman’s contributions to OpenAI’s founding and growth, the board asserted its confidence in Murati’s ability to guide the company through this transition period.
Murati, responsible for research, product, and safety functions, steps into the role of interim CEO with a mandate to steer OpenAI in the right direction.
The OpenAI board, consisting of Chief Scientist Ilya Sutskever, Chairman and President Greg Brockman, and independent advisors Adam D’Angelo, Tasha McCauley, and Helen Toner, played a pivotal role in the decision-making process. Altman, previously the CEO, also served as an independent advisor on the board, adding another layer of complexity to this leadership shuffle.
Sam Altman’s prominent role extended beyond OpenAI, making him a recognizable figure in the AI industry. Formerly the president of Y Combinator, Altman engaged with governmental panels, attended Senate AI Insight forums, and spoke at numerous industry conferences. His removal from OpenAI’s helm marks a significant shift, impacting not only the company but the broader landscape of generative AI technologies.
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Greg Brockman, the board’s President, also faced repercussions, being asked to step down, a decision he promptly executed. Altman and Brockman’s goodbye notes on X garnered 8 million views.
