OpenAI Board Shake-Up: In a recent development at OpenAI, owner of the widely acclaimed ChatGPT, it appears that the organization is leaning towards excluding major investors, including tech giant Microsoft, from seats on its new board. This move follows the abrupt removal and reinstatement of CEO and founder Sam Altman, which alarmed investors and employees. The absence of details concerning Altman’s ouster has raised questions about OpenAI’s future.
Reports suggest that Microsoft, one of the primary backers of OpenAI, is unlikely to secure a seat on the new board. This decision may raise eyebrows, especially considering Microsoft’s substantial investment of over $10 billion in OpenAI. Some industry experts believe that Microsoft, given its significant financial commitment, will likely have a say in the matter. Thomas Hayes, chairman of hedge fund Great Hill Capital, commented on the situation, noting that Microsoft’s active involvement aligns with its substantial financial contribution, and it would not be in Microsoft’s interest to remain passive.
The Information initially reported that OpenAI’s new board would consist of nine members. The three initial directors expected to lead the board are Bret Taylor as Chair, former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers, and Quora CEO Adam D’Angelo. Confirmation of these appointments is anticipated soon, possibly within the week.
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Of note, Adam D’Angelo is expected to be the sole remaining director from the old six-person board that made the decision to dismiss Altman. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella had previously commented on the governance at OpenAI, suggesting that changes were necessary regardless of Altman’s future role.
Microsoft’s response to these developments has been measured, with a spokesperson stating, “We will wait until the board officially says something.” OpenAI, Thrive Capital, and Khosla Ventures did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and Khosla declined to comment.
As the situation unfolds, the evolving dynamics between OpenAI and its key investors, particularly Microsoft, will be closely watched. The governance changes and the composition of the new board hold implications for the future direction of OpenAI, a pivotal player in the AI landscape and the force behind the widely recognized ChatGPT. The outcome of this shift in governance will likely have broader implications for the relationship between major investors and the influential organization at the forefront of AI research and development.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the controversy with OpenAI?
The recent OpenAI controversy highlights a common governance issue – the confusion between the roles of the board and management. This problem is not limited to the tech industry and requires a better understanding of the proper responsibilities of each party.
What happened to the OpenAI board?
Before the controversy surrounding Sam Altman’s leadership, the OpenAI board consisted of six members. However, following the unsuccessful coup, three prominent figures, including co-founder and president Greg Brockman, have resigned from their positions on the board alongside Altman and the retained Adam D’Angelo.
What is going on with OpenAI?
In recent weeks, the company faced a major crisis when its CEO, Sam Altman, was fired by the board, leading to a mass revolt among the staff. However, the company has now announced that Altman has been reinstated as CEO, and there seems to be a new board in place. Despite the turmoil, the company is moving forward with a renewed sense of stability and direction.
How is OpenAI board selected?
OpenAI’s bylaws dictate that only directors have the power to remove or elect new board members. This type of board structure, referred to as a self-perpetuating board, is widely used in the nonprofit sector, according to Reid. The current board consists of four individuals, including three independent directors and OpenAI’s chief scientist, Ilya Sutskever.