OpenAI’s Interim Board: Larry Summers Joins Bret Taylor and Adam D’Angelo
In a dramatic turn of events, OpenAI has announced a new interim board following the reinstatement of Sam Altman as CEO. The initial board consists of Bret Taylor (Chair), Larry Summers, and Adam D’Angelo—marking a pivotal moment for the AI powerhouse.
Key Developments
- Sam Altman Returns as CEO: After being abruptly fired last Friday, Altman is set to reclaim his role, replacing interim CEO Emmett Shear.
- Interim Board Structure: The new board is described as “initial,” suggesting it’s a transitional arrangement rather than permanent.
- Microsoft’s Role: Reports indicate the final board may expand to nine members, potentially including a Microsoft executive—a move that could draw regulatory scrutiny.
Who’s on the New Board?
- Bret Taylor: Former co-CEO of Salesforce and now Chair of OpenAI’s board.
- Adam D’Angelo: Quora CEO and holdover from OpenAI’s previous board.
- Larry Summers: Economist, former U.S. Treasury Secretary, and political veteran.
Why Larry Summers?
Summers’ appointment raises eyebrows, but his expertise aligns with OpenAI’s strategic needs:
- Policy and Regulation: With OpenAI under increasing scrutiny, Summers’ government and academic connections are invaluable.
- AI Advocacy: He has publicly compared ChatGPT to transformative technologies like the printing press and electricity.
- Economic Vision: Summers warns of AI’s long-term impact on jobs, emphasizing U.S. competitiveness against China.
Controversy and Context
Summers is no stranger to controversy, notably for his past comments on gender and STEM fields. However, his tech board experience (Block, Skillsoft) and advisory role at Andreessen Horowitz lend credibility.
Fallout from the Board Shakeup
- Ilya Sutskever: OpenAI’s chief scientist, who reportedly supported Altman’s ouster, has lost significant influence.
- Departures: Tasha McCauley and Helen Toner (a critic of OpenAI’s safety practices) are out.
- Greg Brockman: OpenAI’s former president confirmed his return, though his exact role remains unclear.
What’s Next?
The “in principle” agreement leaves room for adjustments. Stakeholders await further details, including:
- Final board composition
- Microsoft’s potential involvement
- Governance reforms to prevent future turmoil
Final Thoughts
OpenAI’s interim board reflects a blend of tech leadership and policy savvy—a calculated move to stabilize the company amid rapid growth and regulatory challenges. As the dust settles, all eyes are on how this new chapter unfolds.
Last updated: November 22, 2023, with additional context on Larry Summers.
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