OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT, has fired CEO Sam Altman effective immediately. During a press conference on November 17th, Altman was deemed as “not consistently candid in his communications with the board.” This raises some significant eyebrows as to what Altman might not have been straightforward with the board on. Or what decisions were being made out of self-interest. Regardless, Altman is out. And chief technology officer Mira Murati is in. For now, anyway, as they look for a new CEO.
“OpenAI was deliberately structured to advance our mission: to ensure that artificial general intelligence benefits all humanity. The board remains fully committed to serving this mission. We are grateful for Sam’s many contributions to the founding and growth of OpenAI. At the same time, we believe new leadership is necessary as we move forward. As the leader of the company’s research, product, and safety functions, Mira is exceptionally qualified to step into the role of interim CEO. We have the utmost confidence in her ability to lead OpenAI during this transition period.” says a statement released by OpenAI.
This is huge as this means that the last remaining founder of OpenAI is out. Elon Musk and Altman were originally the founders. Musk left the company in 2018 due to conflicts of interest with Tesla. Altman is not only fired, but has also lost his seat on the board. Co-founder and president of OpenAI, Greg Brockman, is also stepping down as board chairman. While he’s staying on in his role at the company, this means OpenAI is significantly adrift in terms of leadership.
We’ll let you know what we hear about this and other news.
