Sam Altman and OpenAI: 4 Key Dates

Sam Altman, co-founder of Open AI in 2015 (alongside Greg Brockman), has been in the spotlight in recent weeks.

The announcement of his termination following the company's Board of Directors meeting on November 17th marked a true turning point in the technology sector.

The reasons for his dismissal remain unclear. According to information publicly disclosed by the company, Mr. Altman may have "not always been forthright in his communications with the board, thereby hindering his ability to fulfill his responsibilities".

While acknowledging his contributions to the company's founding, the administrators state in an Open AI statement "that new governance was needed to move forward".

The day after, several Open AI investors attempt to bring Altman back to the company. Some announce their decision to resign in support of their former boss, including Greg Brockman. Altman also receives financial support to assist in the potential creation of "a new startup".

At this point, Altman expresses readiness to return to his former company under the condition of a new board of directors and governance structure. He also discusses the idea of creating a new company where he would welcome former Open AI employees, especially those who resigned just after him.

Shortly after, a twist in the story occurs. On November 20th, the American giant Microsoft announces hiring Altman to "lead a new AI research team". At the same time, the position of Open AI's leader is taken over by the former Twitch CEO, Emmett Shear. He describes this role as "the opportunity of a lifetime".

Ultimately, a preliminary agreement is reached with Open AI. The company is willing to bring back Altman "as CEO with a new board of directors", announces the company on X. The exact reasons for his return remain unknown at this time. However, the intense media pressure and the threats of resignation from the company's top executives influenced the decision to recall Altman to Open AI.

Thrilled to resume leadership of the company, Altman posts a public message on X on November 21st. He reflects on the recent developments and justifies his position at Microsoft: "I love Open AI, and everything I have done [...] has been in service of this team and its mission. When I decided to join Microsoft [...], it was clear that it was the best path for me and the team. [...] I am looking forward to returning to Open AI and building our strong partnership with Microsoft".

Back in his role, Sam Altman has decided to launch an internal investigation to learn more about the reasons for his dismissal.

EDIT as of 11/30/23: Sam Altman today resumes his position as CEO of OpenAI, while a new board of directors takes office.

Sources:

[Cover Photo - Greg Brockman's Tweet/X]

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Sam Altman and OpenAI: 4 Key Dates

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