Microsoft, a major investor in OpenAI, joined the board following Altman's reinstatement, gaining a non-voting observer seat. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella expressed support for the changes in OpenAI's board and looked forward to a continued partnership. After Altman's initial dismissal, Nadella had offered him a position leading Microsoft's AI efforts.
Key takeaways:
- Sam Altman was fired by the OpenAI board in November 2023 but was later reinstated as CEO, after which he fired all previous board members and formed a new board.
- Altman described his firing as "extremely painful" but believed it was beneficial for OpenAI, leading to increased unity, determination, and focus within the company.
- Microsoft, a major investor in OpenAI, joined the board after Altman's reinstatement, gaining a "non-voting observer seat" that allows them to attend meetings and access confidential information.
- Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella had offered Altman a job after his firing from OpenAI, and expressed support for the changes to the OpenAI board upon Altman's return.