Sam Altman is now back officially as CEO at OpenAI

Sam Altman has been reinstated to his position as CEO at OpenAI, returning within a fortnight following his removal by the board of the artificial intelligence startup. Notably, Microsoft, holding a 49% stake in OpenAI, has secured a non-voting seat on the company’s board.

The confirmation of Altman’s return follows a prior week’s teaser by OpenAI, unveiling an agreement in principle to reverse his dismissal, resulting from an attempted coup by the company’s board.

In alignment with expectations, major investor Microsoft assumes a non-voting board seat, with Adam D’Angelo being the sole director retaining his position among those who initiated Altman’s removal.

Following the revelation of Sam’s unseating, key employees at OpenAI had voiced intentions to leave in protest. The rationale behind Altman’s removal remains unclear, contributing to a noteworthy corporate spectacle in Silicon Valley.

Sam Altman, however, expressed nuanced sentiments about recent events, citing displeasure with the former board’s decisions while expressing willingness to continue leading the company, a role he has held since 2015.

As a board member, Microsoft now gains access to OpenAI’s meetings and confidential information, although lacking voting rights.

Satya Nadella, Microsoft’s executive chairman and CEO, extended job opportunities to Altman and other OpenAI employees who chose to depart during the upheaval. Specifically, Nadella sought Sam’s leadership for a new Microsoft division focused on AI.

As the dust settles, it becomes apparent that Sam Altman’s tenure at the world’s premier artificial intelligence startup is not concluded. Mira Murati, who resigned as chief technology officer following the upheaval, is also returning to her position at the company.

In a communication to the company, Sam outlined his post-return plans, emphasising advancements in OpenAI’s research, investments in full-stack safety efforts, and the deployment of additional products to cater to customers.