OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has returned to the AI startup's board of directors almost three months after he was briefly ousted.
The AI firm announced on Friday Altman's return along with several decorated names in the tech industry.
(Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Altman's reinstatement to the board marks the return of the board's confidence in the ousted CEO after allegations
It can be remembered that Altman was ousted by the board last November for being "candid" in negotiating with investors. Former president Brockman joined his CEO after filing for resignation.
Their removal only lasted for five days following threats of a mass resignation from employees, including board members who initially voted to oust Altman.
Also Read: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Tried to Have a Board Member Fired Before Ouster, Says Insider
Altman Fit to Lead OpenAI, Internal Probe Says
According to an internal probe in OpenAI's leadership, board chair Bret Taylor commended Altman and Brockman as "the right leaders for OpenAI."
The internal investigation, led by law firm WilmerHale, reviewed over 30,000 documents and interviewed employees for OpenAI's leadership. The probe was first launched following Altman's firing.
Among the new board members that are Melinda Gates Foundation's former CEO Sue Desmond-Hellmann, impeached President Bill Clinton's lawyer Nicole Seligman, Instacart CEO Fidji Simo.
The four board members will join Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Taylor to complete the seven-member executive group of the company.
Altman Back at the Board: What it Means for the AI Industry?
With Altman back at the helm, the AI leader also regained much of his previous power to stir the company amid the challenges and opposition it currently faces.
It can be remembered that OpenAI is currently being sued by The New York Times for alleged copyright violations for using its licensed contents to train its AI models without permission.
There is also the lawsuit from billionaire Elon Musk, one of the tech leaders who helped start OpenAI, for supposed breach of contract.
The completion of its board of directors is expected to affect the company's attitude towards these accusations.
Related Article: How Will OpenAI's Chaotic Leadership Changes Affect the AI Industry?
