American AI research company OpenAI, which has non-profit and for-profit entities, has just announced the return of co-founder and chief executive Sam Altman after ousting him on Friday, November 24. OpenAI reasoned at that time that Altman “was not consistently candid in his communications with the board” without specifying the actual violations.
Previous decision
In hindsight, the board of OpenAI’s non-profit parent recently decided to fire Sam Altman after days of internal turmoil. The decision prompted almost all of the company’s 750 employees to threaten to leave their positions if the board fails to reinstate Sam Altman. They also called for the board to resign.
It also pushed former president Greg Brockman to leave the company to show his protest for Altman’s sudden ousting. Now, he is set to return alongside the former Chief Executive.
On the other hand, the three board members who played a role in Altman’s firing will be replaced, while Adam D’Angelo will remain.
Agreement in principle
In a surprising turn of events, OpenAI announced on social media platform X that it had “reached an agreement in principle” for Sam Altman’s reinstatement as CEO. According to The Guardian, the agreement involves a new board formation chaired by former Salesforce co-CEO Bret Taylor. It will also include ex-US treasury secretary Larry Summers and tech entrepreneur Adam D’Angelo.
“We have reached an agreement in principle for Sam Altman to return to OpenAI as CEO with a new initial board of Bret Taylor (Chair), Larry Summers, and Adam D’Angelo.
We are collaborating to figure out the details. Thank you so much for your patience through this.”
OpenAI
Sam Altman also commented on the development, confirming his return.
“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.” He added: “I’m looking forward to returning to OpenAI.”
Sam Altman
Microsoft’s response
Microsoft, OpenAI’s top investor, had apparently been advocating for Sam Altman’s return. According to The Verge, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella warned that the firm would not like additional surprises. He also expressed his delight with the return of the OpenAI’s founders.
“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. am, Greg, and I have talked and agreed they have a key role to play along with the OAI [OpenAI] leadership team in ensuring OAI continues to thrive and build on its mission. We look forward to building on our strong partnership and delivering the value of this next generation of AI to our customers and partners.”
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella
The sudden departure of OpenAI co-founder and CEO Sam Altman is undoubtedly a huge loss for the ChatGPT developer. That said, it is unsurprising that employees and investors are highly against the decision. It will be exciting to witness the future advancements in the company with the return of its co-founders.
