OpenAI Restructures Leadership as Sam Altman Shifts Focus to Research and Products

COO Brad Lightcap takes on expanded operational and partnership roles, while OpenAI navigates its transition to a for-profit model and global expansion.

OpenAI has announced a major leadership reshuffle, expanding COO Brad Lightcap's responsibilities to include day-to-day operations, international growth, and partnerships with Microsoft and Apple.
CEO Sam Altman will now concentrate on guiding OpenAI's research and product development efforts, signaling a shift in his leadership focus.
Mark Chen has been promoted to chief research officer, and Julia Villagra has been elevated to chief people officer as part of the organizational changes.
The restructuring follows recent leadership departures, including former CTO Mira Murati, chief research officer Bob McGrew, and VP of post training Barret Zoph.
The company continues its transition to a for-profit model, a move that has drawn criticism and a lawsuit from cofounder Elon Musk, while emphasizing its mission to scale AI products globally.