Sam Altman reinstated as OpenAI CEO after a tumultuous ouster. “i’m looking forward to returning to openai.”
OpenAI, amidst frenzied discussions about its future, reached an agreement for Altman’s return, accompanied by a revamp of the board of directors. Bret Taylor from Salesforce named chair; Larry Summers joins the board.
The decision to restore Altman signals a potential new phase for the non-profit startup.
The reshuffle seemed to align with Microsoft’s interests, a major financial backer utilizing OpenAI’s technology globally.
Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella praised the changes, marking it as an essential step toward improved governance. Quora CEO Adam D’Angelo remains on the new “initial board.”
Amidst concerns threatening OpenAI’s future, including potential legal action, Altman’s return aims to stabilize and steer the company forward. The move is seen as reminiscent of Steve Jobs’ return to Apple.
Altman’s swift reappointment followed initial chaos at OpenAI, including the resignation of President Greg Brockman and the interim CEO appointment of Emmett Shear.
Shear, in a post, detailed the intense effort to bring stability and reinstate Altman, a move also facilitated by Microsoft’s support.
Microsoft’s influence, including its computing power and staff, played a role as nearly all of OpenAI’s employees threatened to depart for Microsoft unless Altman was reinstated and the board underwent changes.
Despite the tumult, co-founder and President Brockman expressed optimism for OpenAI’s future and its unification.
