After the recent return of Sam Altman as CEO, Microsoft becomes a new member of the OpenAI board. Altman had previously been dismissed by the former OpenAI board
Microsoft, a major investor in OpenAI, the parent company of the viral AI chatbot ChatGPT, has strengthened its partnership by joining OpenAI’s board. This development follows recent upheavals, including the dismissal of Sam Altman as CEO by the previous board. Altman has since made a dramatic return, resulting in an overhaul of the entire board, as communicated to OpenAI employees through a memo.
In this new collaboration, Microsoft assumes a non-voting observer seat on OpenAI’s nonprofit board, granting access to board meetings and confidential information without the right to vote on decisions, as reported by The Verge. Altman, in his memo to employees, expressed excitement about the future and gratitude for their resilience during a period of uncertainty. He conveyed confidence in the OpenAI team’s probability of success in achieving its mission.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella addressed both OpenAI and Microsoft employees in a tweet, expressing gratitude for their work in the field of AI. He commended their resilience and determination amid recent changes at OpenAI, emphasizing the privilege of working with individuals driven by a mission. Nadella thanked employees for remaining focused on advancing AI safely and responsibly, extending wishes for the Thanksgiving holiday.
Acknowledging Altman’s reinstatement, Nadella welcomed the changes to the OpenAI board as an essential step toward stable, well-informed, and effective governance. He mentioned discussions with Altman and OpenAI’s leadership team, highlighting their key role in ensuring the organization’s continued success. Nadella reiterated Microsoft’s commitment to the partnership and the delivery of the next generation of AI value to customers and partners.
Notably, after Altman’s removal as OpenAI CEO, Nadella had announced his role in leading a new AI division at Microsoft. He expressed excitement about Altman’s presence at the company and praised his contributions.
