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OpenAI Shifts Senior Roles as Fidji Simo Takes Medical Leave and COO Moves to Special Projects

The moves reflect continuity planning during a push toward a public listing.

Overview

  • Fidji Simo told staff Friday that she will take several weeks of medical leave for a neuroimmune condition, with president Greg Brockman covering product during her absence.
  • COO Brad Lightcap is transitioning to lead special projects reporting to CEO Sam Altman, focusing on complex deals and enterprise efforts including partnerships with private equity firms.
  • Chief revenue officer Denise Dresser is taking on much of the COO remit, while government work and OpenAI for Countries shift to the company’s strategy group.
  • Chief marketing officer Kate Rouch is stepping down to focus on cancer recovery, with a search underway for a new CMO and the option for her to return in a narrower role if health allows.
  • The reshuffle follows a $122 billion raise valuing OpenAI at about $852 billion and comes as the company consolidates products and tests advertising in ChatGPT ahead of a possible IPO.