The OpenAI Boardroom Coup: 'I Love You All, and I'm Going to Destroy the Company'

Realdealarchives Substack
A chronological look at the five-day crisis in November 2023 when OpenAI's board fired CEO Sam Altman, triggering massive employee revolt and his swift reinstatement.

Summary

In November 2023, OpenAI's nonprofit board abruptly fired CEO Sam Altman, sparking a chaotic five-day crisis that nearly destroyed the company. Following the dismissal, Microsoft quickly offered to hire Altman and Greg Brockman, while 747 of OpenAI's 770 employees signed a revolt letter threatening to quit unless the board resigned and reinstated Altman. Faced with a near-total staff exodus and mounting pressure, the board capitulated, leading to Altman's return as CEO, the replacement of key board members, and a reorganized leadership structure aimed at stabilizing the company.

(Source:Realdealarchives Substack)