Sam Altman is making a comeback as the CEO of OpenAI just days after his sudden departure, marking a significant development in the startup’s future amid discussions about artificial intelligence’s role.
The maker of ChatGPT also announced a new initial board with Bret Taylor, former Salesforce co-CEO, as chair, and Larry Summers, former U.S. Treasury Secretary, and Adam D’Angelo as directors. D’Angelo, part of the original board that dismissed Altman, is now part of the revamped board.
i love openai, and everything i’ve done over the past few days has been in service of keeping this team and its mission together. when i decided to join msft on sun evening, it was clear that was the best path for me and the team. with the new board and w satya’s support, i’m…
— Sam Altman (@sama) November 22, 2023
Altman’s return could signal a new era for OpenAI, addressing concerns about AI’s dangers and its commercialization potential among staff.
Altman expressed his anticipation for returning to OpenAI in a post on the X social media platform.
The original board provided little explanation for Altman’s firing, citing his lack of candor and the need to defend OpenAI’s mission. The reshuffle is expected to benefit Altman and Microsoft, which has committed billions to the startup.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella welcomed the changes, emphasizing a step toward more stable and effective governance.
We are encouraged by the changes to the OpenAI board. We believe this is a first essential step on a path to more stable, well-informed, and effective governance. Sam, Greg, and I have talked and agreed they have a key role to play along with the OAI leadership team in ensuring… https://t.co/djO6Fuz6t9
— Satya Nadella (@satyanadella) November 22, 2023
Microsoft shares rose nearly 1% in premarket U.S. trading.
The previous board directors’ status and the role of backers, including Microsoft, in board appointments remain unclear.
OpenAI, unlike typical Silicon Valley startups, is overseen by a nonprofit parent board prioritizing AI safety alongside growth. The return of Altman consolidates his influence, potentially leading to a more profit-focused and less risk-averse direction.
The previous board’s makeup included Tasha McCauley, Helen Toner, OpenAI chief scientist Ilya Sutskever, and Quora CEO Adam D’Angelo, now part of the revamped board.
Shareholders exploring legal recourse after the turmoil threatened OpenAI’s future have found reassurance in the latest moves.
Thrive Capital, a backer of OpenAI, stated, “We believe this is the best outcome for the company.”
Altman’s swift turnaround has drawn comparisons to Silicon Valley lore, likening it to Steve Jobs’ return to Apple after a power struggle in 1985.
Altman, who left and returned within four days, orchestrated the move with support from Microsoft, allowing him to head a new research team.
The upheaval at OpenAI triggered by Altman’s departure included President Greg Brockman quitting, only for Altman to return and be named interim CEO.
Emmett Shear, ex-Twitch boss and interim CEO, played a key role in bringing stability and facilitating Altman’s return.
Altman’s return was made possible by Microsoft’s support, backed by the majority of OpenAI staff threatening to leave and join Microsoft unless the board reinstated Altman.
The latest developments are seen as a positive outcome for the company, with Altman’s return signaling a stronger and more unified future.
