22/11/2023
22/11/2023
NEW YORK, Nov 22, (Agencies): Sam Altman is set to reclaim the position of CEO at OpenAI, overcoming recent boardroom turmoil that threw the company into disarray. Former president Greg Brockman, who resigned in protest of Altman's dismissal, will also make a return.
In a statement released late Tuesday, the company revealed a tentative agreement for Altman's reinstatement, accompanied by a restructured board featuring Bret Taylor, Larry Summers, and Adam D’Angelo. D’Angelo, originally from the previous board that initiated Altman's removal, retains a seat to provide representation continuity.
Insiders familiar with the negotiations indicate that the primary role of this initial board is to scrutinize and appoint an expanded board of up to nine members, aiming to reset OpenAI's governance. Microsoft, a significant investor with over $10 billion in contributions, seeks representation on the expanded board, aligning with Altman's interests. CEO Satya Nadella expressed during a recent press tour the company's desire to avoid any unforeseen developments.
Both parties have reportedly agreed to an investigation into the recent events, likely to be conducted by an external, independent law firm. Sources suggest that the underlying power struggle is not entirely resolved.
All key stakeholders have publicly acknowledged the deal for Altman's return, deemed nearly finalized pending some last-minute paperwork. On social media, Altman emphasized his recent actions as efforts to preserve the team and its mission.
Thrive Capital, another major investor in OpenAI, views Altman's return as the optimal outcome for the company, its employees, technology developers, and the broader world. Kelly Sims, a partner at Thrive, lauded Altman and Brockman's commitment to the company's integrity and leadership.
Helen Toner, a pivotal board member in the initial decision to remove Altman, succinctly commented, "And now, we all get some sleep."
Altman's return comes as a surprise following his abrupt departure on Friday. The nonprofit board initially appeared steadfast in its decision to oust Altman, cycling through two CEOs within three days to avoid reinstatement. Amidst this, OpenAI employees revolted, threatening to join Microsoft with Altman and co-founder Greg Brockman unless the board resigned.
Since Altman's dismissal, the board members opposing him have refrained from disclosing detailed reasons for his firing, even amid investor threats of lawsuits and employee walkouts. On Sunday, key board member Ilya Sutskever switched back to Altman's side after pleas from Brockman's wife. This shift left the remaining three board members more vulnerable.
Interim CEO Emmett Shear, appointed on Sunday, once threatened to resign unless the board provided evidence to support Altman's firing. Following Tuesday night's announcement of Altman's return, Shear expressed satisfaction, labeling it as "the pathway that maximized safety alongside doing right by all stakeholders involved."