According to Cointelegraph: In a shocking revelation, OpenAI, the artificial intelligence startup, announced the dismissal of its CEO, Sam Altman, the driving force behind powerful AI technology like ChatGPT, GPT4, and DallE-3, on November 17. OpenAI's president and co-founder, Greg Brockman, announced his resignation following Altman's departure, eliciting a substantial backlash from employees and shareholders. The board is currently in discussions to potentially reinstate Altman.
On the evening of November 16, OpenAI's chief scientist, Ilya Sutskever, scheduled a meeting with Altman for the following afternoon, according to a post from Brockman. Moreover, it was reported Mira Murati, OpenAI's CTO, was informed of Altman's impending dismissal that same evening.
On November 17, around noon, Brockman learned of Altman's termination while on a call with Sutskever. On the same day, OpenAI publicized Altman's dismissal, referring to his lack of "consistent candor in his communications with the board," and appointed Murati as interim CEO.
Microsoft, OpenAI's largest investor and partner, issued a statement with CEO Satya Nadella reassuring that Altman's termination would not significantly impact the ongoing partnership. Following Altman's public dismissal, a chain of resignations ensued from senior OpenAI executives, including the companyโs head of preparedness Aleksander Madfry, and director of research Jakub Pachoki.
In an internal memo seen by Axios on November 18, OpenAI's COO, Brad Lightcap, clarified the board's decision was rooted in a "breakdown in communication" between Altman and the board, rather than any malpractice or business-related issues.
The same day, reports surfaced about Altman discussing a new AI venture with investors, with Brockman expected to join him. In the meantime, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella reportedly expressed intense dissatisfaction with Altman's dismissal, pushing the board toward reconsidering their decision.
On November 19, as a decision deadline loomed, Altman was spotted at OpenAI's headquarters. If reinstated, an apology and statement absolving Altman of any wrongs might be required. Interestingly, Microsoft is reportedly considering a board seat or board observer role in OpenAI if Altman returns. Meanwhile, insiders within OpenAI are actively advocating for Altman's reinstatement.