In an abrupt shift in leadership, the OpenAI board of directors made an official announcement revealing that Mira Murati, currently holding the position of chief technology officer (CTO), would be stepping in as the interim CEO, temporarily taking over the responsibilities of the dismissed CEO and board member, Sam Altman. Simultaneously, as part of this change in leadership, Greg Brockman was requested to resign from his role as the chairman of the board.
The rationale behind Altman’s departure was elucidated in OpenAI’s official blog post, citing a thorough review conducted by the board. This examination identified a notable lack of consistent communication between Altman and the board, leading to a loss of confidence in his leadership capabilities.
The board of directors, in an official statement, emphasized that OpenAI was intentionally structured to propel its mission: ensuring that artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity. While expressing gratitude for Altman’s significant contributions to OpenAI’s founding and growth, the board underscored the belief in the imperative of new leadership for the organization’s continued progress.
In relation to Mira Murati assuming the role of interim CEO, the board affirmed her exceptional qualifications as the leader overseeing the company’s research, product, and safety functions. They expressed unwavering confidence in her ability to navigate OpenAI through this transitional phase.
Despite the sudden and unforeseen nature of Brockman and Altman’s departure, both individuals conveyed appreciation to their colleagues, customers, investors, and well-wishers. Altman expressed gratitude to his followers on X, urging them to carry forward their kind words. He expressed fondness for his time at OpenAI, deeming it transformative both personally and, hopefully, for the world. Altman concluded by expressing his admiration for the talented individuals he had the opportunity to work with, hinting at more details about his future endeavors to be shared later.
