OpenAI Restructures Leadership as Sam Altman Refocuses on Technical Innovation

COO Brad Lightcap takes on expanded operational responsibilities while Mark Chen and Julia Villagra are promoted to key roles in a move to support global growth and AGI research.

Brad Lightcap, OpenAI's COO, will now oversee day-to-day operations, international expansion, and partnerships with major tech firms like Microsoft and Apple.
Sam Altman, the CEO, is shifting his focus toward guiding research and product development to advance AI innovation and global scalability.
Mark Chen has been promoted to Chief Research Officer, tasked with integrating research and product development, while Julia Villagra becomes Chief People Officer to support organizational growth.
The leadership changes follow high-profile departures, including Mira Murati and Ilya Sutskever, with no plans to replace Murati, who has launched her own AI startup.
OpenAI is transitioning to a for-profit public benefit corporation and is in discussions to raise $40 billion in funding, reflecting its growing ambitions and valuation.