On November 30, 2022, OpenAI announced the launch of ChatGPT. Little did they or anyone else anticipate the global impact this chatbot would create. In the past few weeks, OpenAI has undergone significant changes, but as ChatGPT celebrates its first anniversary, things seem to be settling back into place with OpenAI Restructure.
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has returned to the helm, marking a new chapter for the company. Interestingly, he reassumes the role of CEO but will not be part of the board. This shift follows Altman’s departure and subsequent return to the company he co-founded. In an official statement released yesterday, OpenAI clarified the company’s new structure, reminiscent of its previous form. Altman reflected on the past year since the launch of ChatGPT, stating, “What a year it has been.”
Mira Murati and Greg Brockman also return to their former positions. Murati, who briefly served as interim CEO, is now back as the CTO, while Brockman resumes his role as the president.
The previous board, led by Bret Taylor, with members including Larry Summers, Tasha McCauley, Helen Toner, Adam D’Angelo, Greg Brockman, Ilya Sutskever, and Altman, has changed. The revamped board now comprises Taylor, Summers, and D’Angelo.
Ilya Sutskever, Chief Scientist and an advocate behind Altman’s initial departure, has stepped down from the board. Altman expressed no resentment, emphasizing the company’s intention to continue working with him. McCauley and Toner, both influential figures, are also no longer part of the board.
Helen Toner, director of the Center for Security and Emerging Technologies at Georgetown University, shared her perspective on the “resignation” from the board. She clarified that the decision was based on the board’s effectiveness in overseeing the company, not an attempt to impede OpenAI’s progress. Toner conveyed well wishes to the OpenAI team and expressed hopes for future collaborations.
Microsoft, led by Satya Nadella, will have an observer seat on the board, despite its substantial investment. The company currently lacks voting rights, and it remains uncertain if this arrangement will change.
In a brief interview, Altman acknowledged governance issues within OpenAI, calling it a “clear problem.” He briefly discussed his emotions when asked to return as CEO. He also pledged support for an independent investigation into the past events. Altman also touched upon the “unfortunate leak” of the Q* model without confirming or denying its revolutionary nature.
Altman concluded his message on a forward-looking note, turning the crisis into an opportunity. He emphasized the company’s commitment to launching products, and ensuring people experience the benefits of AI. Altman mentioned ongoing efforts in security, expressing eagerness to continue building a beneficial AGI with the “best team in the world.”
In its transformative journey, OpenAI remains resilient, poised for a promising future under the renewed leadership of Sam Altman.