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Sam Altman said his firing and reinstatement was 'extremely painful,' but 'great for OpenAI'

Jan 07, 2024 - businessinsider.com
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, spoke about his recent ousting and reinstatement at the company in an interview with Time's editor. Despite describing the experience as extremely painful, Altman said it had a positive effect on the company, strengthening its unity and focus. He also expressed confidence in the executive team's ability to run the company without him, stating that hiring good people is a CEO's most important job.

Upon his return, Altman brought in a new board, including Silicon Valley veteran Bret Taylor and former Harvard president Larry Summers. One significant change was that the new board could veto Altman's decisions. Altman emphasized the importance of OpenAI's ability to function in uncertain and stressful moments, stating it would be key for the whole world.

Key takeaways:

  • Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, spoke about his temporary ouster from the company, describing it as a painful but ultimately beneficial experience for the organization.
  • Altman was fired by OpenAI's board in mid-November and reinstated as CEO just days later. He said the experience strengthened the unity and focus of the company.
  • Upon his return, Altman brought in a new board that included Silicon Valley veteran Bret Taylor and economist and former Harvard president Larry Summers. The new board has the power to veto Altman's decisions.
  • Altman emphasized the importance of hiring good people, stating that the executive team could run the company without him. He also expressed his hope for OpenAI to be self-reliant in the face of future controversies.
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