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November 2023 saw OpenAI, the non-profit company behind ChatGPT, embroiled in a dramatic saga culminating in the surprising firing and subsequent rehiring of its CEO, Sam Altman. In an interview with Time magazine, Altman spoke about the impact the whole ‘saga’ had on him as well as the company. “It’s been extremely painful for me personally, but I actually think it’s been great for OpenAI,” Altman said in the interview
It all began abruptly on November 17, with Altman removed from his post by the OpenAI board.While the exact reasons remain shrouded in mystery, speculation ranged from concerns about his communication style to internal disagreements regarding the pace of AI development. The sudden decision sent shockwaves through the industry, with employees expressing confusion and dismay.
A few days of ‘chaos’
The ensuing five days were a whirlwind of uncertainty. OpenAI president Greg Brockman resigned in solidarity with Altman, and investors, with Microsoft leading the charge, voiced serious concerns about the board’s actions. Employee pressure mounted, and amidst reports of internal turmoil, the board faced a stark choice: back down or risk losing the very fabric of the organisation.
On November 21 a dramatic reversal unfolded. The board, restructured in the wake of the upheaval, offered Altman his job back. He readily accepted, citing his unwavering commitment to OpenAI’s mission. Brockman also returned to his position.
Speaking on the matter, Altman said that while it was ‘tough’ it did was a good thing for the company.“I wouldn’t wish it on an enemy. But it did have an extremely positive effect on the company,” hesaid. Altman also mentioned that he still has to work through everything that happened but realised that hiring good people was perhaps a CEO’s most important job. “The proudest moment for me, in all of this craziness, was realising that the executive team could totally run the company without me,” he said. “I can go retire, OpenAI will be fine.”
It all began abruptly on November 17, with Altman removed from his post by the OpenAI board.While the exact reasons remain shrouded in mystery, speculation ranged from concerns about his communication style to internal disagreements regarding the pace of AI development. The sudden decision sent shockwaves through the industry, with employees expressing confusion and dismay.
A few days of ‘chaos’
The ensuing five days were a whirlwind of uncertainty. OpenAI president Greg Brockman resigned in solidarity with Altman, and investors, with Microsoft leading the charge, voiced serious concerns about the board’s actions. Employee pressure mounted, and amidst reports of internal turmoil, the board faced a stark choice: back down or risk losing the very fabric of the organisation.
On November 21 a dramatic reversal unfolded. The board, restructured in the wake of the upheaval, offered Altman his job back. He readily accepted, citing his unwavering commitment to OpenAI’s mission. Brockman also returned to his position.
Speaking on the matter, Altman said that while it was ‘tough’ it did was a good thing for the company.“I wouldn’t wish it on an enemy. But it did have an extremely positive effect on the company,” hesaid. Altman also mentioned that he still has to work through everything that happened but realised that hiring good people was perhaps a CEO’s most important job. “The proudest moment for me, in all of this craziness, was realising that the executive team could totally run the company without me,” he said. “I can go retire, OpenAI will be fine.”
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