Key Insights
- OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stepping down after board alleges lack of candor
- CTO Mira Murati appointed interim CEO, Greg Brockman exits as board chair
- Murati led teams behind ChatGPT and advocated ethical AI development
San Francisco, CA – OpenAI announced leadership changes on Friday, with CTO Mira Murati stepping in as interim CEO following the departure of Sam Altman.
The AI research company’s board of directors said Altman is no longer fit to lead OpenAI, citing a “lack of candor” during unspecified reviews that hindered their oversight duties. Altman acknowledged his exit in a brief statement without addressing the board’s allegations.
Altman’s fellow co-founder and OpenAI President Greg Brockman will also step down as chairman but remain at the company.
Read also! Altman, Brockman Join Microsoft After OpenAI Exits
OpenAI Interim CEO: Mira Murati’s Rise to Power
Murati’s appointment reflects her central role in developing OpenAI’s technologies like ChatGPT, the viral conversational AI that sparked renewed public interest in artificial intelligence.
The 35-year-old has led the company’s research, product, and safety divisions since 2018 after stints at Tesla and VR startup Leap Motion. She holds a mechanical engineering degree from Dartmouth.
As CTO, Murati has advocated ethical development of AI, stating companies like OpenAI require regulation and transparency. Her priorities as interim CEO include navigating rapid growth and public expectations following ChatGPT’s breakout success.
“Mira is exceptionally qualified to lead OpenAI at this juncture,” the board said, expressing full confidence in her technical expertise and leadership abilities.
Read also! OpenAI Names Former Twitch CEO Emmett Shear as Interim Chief
The shakeup comes amid growing scrutiny of AI safety and speculation over how OpenAI will capitalize on its influential natural language models. The board aims to conduct a thorough search for a permanent CEO capable of guiding the company through its critical next phase.
Murati will take charge effective immediately as one of the most powerful women in an industry dominated by men. Her technology acumen and moral compass will be tested as public calls for AI accountability intensify.
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