The back story of the ouster of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who...
The surprising ouster of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in November 2023 has now been unveiled in intricate detail. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) recently released an in-depth report on the events leading to the removal of Sam Altman from his position.
Complaints Against Sam Altman
According to the WSJ report by Kitch Hagi, six directors of OpenAI's non-profit organization, four of whom expressed concerns about Sam Altman's leadership in 2023. Notable figures among these directors were Ilya Sutkeber, OpenAI's chief scientist, Adam D'Angelo Cuora from Georgetown University, and Tasha McCauley. The directors cited instances where Altman disregarded board decisions, took unilateral actions, and neglected the potential safety risks associated with AI.
The discontent among the directors also stemmed from Altman's control over OpenAI's startup fund, leading to concerns about his dominant influence within the organization. Additionally, Mira Murati, OpenAI's Chief Technology Officer, was critical of Altman's management style, further exacerbating the situation.
The Ouster
The dissatisfaction with Altman's leadership culminated in a decision by Ilya Sutskeber and three other directors to remove him from his roles as director and CEO. This decision was reached during a video conference on November 16, 2023, where Altman was ousted, and President Greg Brockman was also dismissed. Mira Murati was subsequently appointed as the interim CEO.
While the removal of Altman was legally sound, complications arose post the ouster. Notably, the directors failed to inform Microsoft, a significant investor, about Altman's removal promptly. The situation escalated further when Satya Nadella expressed interest in recruiting Altman for Microsoft, swaying public opinion within the organization.
Aftermath
Following the failed coup and the subsequent changes in OpenAI's leadership, key executives departed from the organization. Sutskeber, who spearheaded Altman's ouster, and Murati, who initially sided against Altman but later joined forces with him, ultimately left the company. This significant event marked a shift in OpenAI's trajectory towards becoming a for-profit corporation.
