After an intense five days of controversies, Sam Altman is set to return as the CEO of OpenAI. The artificial intelligence startup made the announcement on Wednesday, indicating the reappointment of the co-founder. According to a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Sam Altman will head a new initial board of Bret Taylor, Larry Summers, and Adam D’Angelo.
Since five days ago, the high-profile AI startup has been a subject of unwanted attention following the sudden dismissal of its co-founder. The decision generated huge debate, confusion, and controversies. Meanwhile, members of the startup resigned in protest of the co-founder’s discharge.
Likewise, the whole drama gained more intensity after the startup remained mute about the dismissal of Sam Altman. Amid the tension, various investors of OpenAI explored the possibility of filing a lawsuit against the board members.
High-profile associates of OpenAI like Greg Brockman, former President of the startup also kicked against the decision. Similarly, Microsoft, one of the largest shareholders of OpenAI, expressed its displeasure over the ousting of Sam Altman. The tech company swiftly appointed Altman to head a newly founded AI group at the firm.
Now, the company seems to be on the course of retracing its steps to reappoint Sam Altman as its CEO. Further, the company disclosed that it has reached an “agreement in principle” to reinstate the co-founder amid a board rejuvenation. Accordingly, some board members who were criticized for ousting Altman have been dismissed from the board.
How Sam Altman Reacted to His Reappointment
After the news about his reappointment hit the media space, the co-founder took to his X page to weigh in on the development. In the post, the executive established how he loves OpenAI and committed himself to the “service of keeping this team and its mission together.”
Furthermore, he revealed that his decision to join Microsoft after his ousting from OpenAI was the best path for himself and the team. However, Sam Altman added that he’s looking forward to returning to the AI startup with the support of the new board and Satya. Lastly, he emphasized his willingness to establish a strong relationship with Microsoft.
At the moment, Sam Altman and every party involved in the five-day drama are looking to put the whole saga behind them. Microsoft top executive, Satya Nadella disclosed that the company is happy about the decision of OpenAI to reinstate its CEO. Nadella disclosed that Microsoft has reached an agreement with OpenAI executives to work together and deliver “the next generation of AI to our customers and partners.”