OpenAI's marketing head takes leave to undergo breast cancer treatment | TechCrunch
Jun 06, 2025 - techcrunch.com
Kate Rouch, OpenAI's head of marketing, announced she is taking a three-month leave to undergo treatment for invasive breast cancer. In a LinkedIn post, Rouch shared that she was diagnosed shortly after starting her role and has been undergoing chemotherapy at UCSF while managing her team. She expressed gratitude for her prognosis, which is excellent, and emphasized the importance of routine exams, noting that breast cancer rates are rising among young women.
During her absence, Gary Briggs, Meta’s former CMO, will serve as interim head of marketing. Rouch, who joined OpenAI in December and previously worked at Meta and Coinbase, aims to raise awareness about breast cancer and encourage women to prioritize their health. Her story highlights the challenges faced by working women balancing health and family responsibilities.
Key takeaways:
Kate Rouch, OpenAI's head of marketing, is taking a three-month leave for breast cancer treatment.
Gary Briggs, former CMO of Meta, will serve as interim head of marketing during Rouch's absence.
Rouch has been undergoing chemotherapy while leading the marketing team and has an excellent prognosis.
Rouch emphasizes the importance of routine exams for early detection of breast cancer, sharing her story to encourage others.
