Game of Thrones: OpenAI’s

Overview
Tags
AI
Machine Learning
Date
Created
Nov 12, 2023 11:17 AM
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Timeline of OpenAI Leadership and Board Changes

Thursday

  • Mira Murati Informed: The night before the board meeting, Mira Murati is informed of the impending changes.

Friday

  • 3:28 PM: OpenAI board fires CEO Sam Altman during a Google Meet, appointing CTO Mira Murati as interim CEO.
  • Board Changes: Greg Brockman removed as chairman but remains President. He later resigns in response.
  • Limited Communication: The board gives Microsoft a one-minute warning and keeps others, including employees, largely in the dark.

Over the Weekend

  • Board Statement: The board explains their decision, citing a lack of confidence in Altman due to his communication style.
  • Clashes and Concerns: Disputes between Altman and the board surface, including disagreements over company direction and safety concerns.
  • Public Reaction: Widespread criticism from the tech community and OpenAI employees. Calls for Altman's return or to start a new company.
  • Existential Risk Discussions: Focus on AI existential risk and the implications of OpenAI’s corporate structure.

Saturday and Sunday

  • Ultimatums and Pressure: The board faces deadlines to resign and calls to reinstate Altman.
  • Sam Altman's Visit: Altman visits OpenAI offices, indicating continued engagement.

Sunday Night

  • Board Resignation Talks: Discussions about board resignations and replacements, including legal considerations.
  • 11:16 PM: Reports emerge about potential rehiring of Altman and Brockman, with the board seeking alternative CEO options.

Monday

  • Early Hours: Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella expresses ongoing support for OpenAI and announces a new partnership involving Altman and Brockman.
  • 8:15 AM: Ilya Sutskever expresses regret over his role in the board's decisions.
  • Stock Market Reaction: Microsoft stock stabilizes; no significant movements in related stocks.
  • OpenAI Board attempts to merge business unit with Anthropic, but are rejected

Following Days

  • Employee Ultimatum: Majority of OpenAI employees sign a letter threatening to move to Microsoft’s new subsidiary unless the board resigns and reinstates Altman and Brockman.
  • Uncertainty and Speculation: Concerns about the future of OpenAI and its products, including ChatGPT.

Ongoing Developments

  • The situation remains fluid with potential for further changes and announcements.