An internal memo sent to OpenAI employees on Saturday clarified that the firing of former CEO Sam Altman was due to a breakdown in communication, rather than any wrongdoing in the company’s financial, business, safety, or security/privacy practices. The memo, obtained by Axios and The New York Times, was sent by OpenAI’s Chief Operating Officer Brad Lightcap.
Following Altman’s unexpected removal as CEO and departure from the board of directors, speculation has been rife with little official information from OpenAI. The board’s announcement only stated that Altman was not consistently candid in his communications with the board, hindering its ability to carry out its responsibilities. Mira Murati, OpenAI’s Chief Technology Officer, has been named as interim CEO.
In response to Altman’s departure, Greg Brockman, the now-former president of OpenAI, announced his own resignation, expressing shock and sadness at the board’s decision. Three senior researchers also resigned, according to The Information. Sources have now revealed to The Information that Altman is already working on a new venture and plans to bring Brockman and potentially others with him. It remains unclear whether this venture is separate from Altman’s other known upcoming projects, including a collaboration with former Apple designer Jony Ive.
Numerous reports have attempted to explain the reasons behind Altman’s firing, with some suggesting concerns over the rapid development of OpenAI’s AI products and a profit-driven direction. In the memo on Saturday, Lightcap wrote that the announcement took everyone by surprise and that they have had multiple conversations with the board to better understand the reasons and process behind the decision.
The sudden upheaval at OpenAI may also have consequences for the sale of employee shares, which are valued at approximately $86 billion, according to The Information. Altman’s cryptic tweet on Saturday, stating that the board should go after him for the full value of his shares if he starts going off, adds further intrigue to the situation.
