Ousted CEO Sam Altman is returning to Microsoft, and consideration for a seat on the OpenAI Board of Directors is underway. Simultaneously, major shareholders and executives at OpenAI are exerting pressure on the board to reinstate Altman. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella is personally aiding OpenAI interim CEO Mira Murati in discussions regarding Altman’s return, according to sources familiar with the matter. Should Altman’s return to OpenAI prove unattainable, Microsoft is contemplating an investment in Altman’s new venture.
Upon Altman’s return, an inevitable reshuffling of the OpenAI board of directors will occur. This presents Microsoft with an opportunity to pursue a seat on the OpenAI board. Despite being the majority shareholder, Microsoft currently lacks representation on the board of directors. Notably, in the case of Altman’s removal, Microsoft remained uninformed until the last minute.
In the event of successful negotiations, Microsoft is poised to either secure a seat on the OpenAI board or assume the role of a board observer without voting rights, as indicated by individuals familiar with the matter. However, it is unlikely that Nadella himself will join the board. Additionally, Microsoft is committed to supporting Altman in whatever moves he takes next.
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