After an independent investigation and a turbulent period, Sam Altman rejoins the OpenAI board.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s career path has been bumpy lately. Late last year, Altman was unexpectedly ousted but quickly found shelter at Microsoft. After a minor revolt by employees, Altman was reinstated as CEO. An independent investigation found that his behavior during the failed coup attempt did not warrant dismissal. From now on he will be part of the OpenAI board again.

Independent research

Altman’s surprise departure was announced late last year as the result of an attempted power grab by the board. Together with investors, Altman tried to launch a counteroffensive, but without success. Not long after, many employees turned against OpenAI and in favor of Altman, after which he was reinstated as CEO of OpenAI.

An independent investigation launched by OpenAI’s nonprofit board found that Altman’s behavior during the failed coup attempt “did not warrant removal.” This study examined more than 30,000 documents to conclude that Altman and co-founder Greg Brockman are the right leaders for OpenAI.

In addition to Altman, three other OpenAI board members were appointed, including Sue Desmond-Hellmann, former CEO of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Nicole Seligman, former legal director at Sony and Fidji Simo, CEO at Instacart. Along with Taylor, Altman, Adam D’Angelo and Larry Summers, they will lead OpenAI’s non-profit venture.