OpenAI, the renowned artificial intelligence company behind ChatGPT, has announced the addition of billionaire investor and Wall Street heavyweight Adebayo Ogunlesi to its board. Ogunlesi’s appointment marks a significant step for the company as it navigates its transition to becoming a for-profit entity amidst fierce competition in the AI industry.
Ogunlesi is the co-founder of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) and is widely recognized for his expertise in advising top companies during pivotal moments. His strategic acumen has earned him a reputation as one of Wall Street’s most influential dealmakers. This new role comes at a crucial time for OpenAI, which is undergoing major restructuring.
The company’s restructuring began following CEO Sam Altman’s brief ousting and subsequent reinstatement in November 2023. The current board includes notable names such as Bret Taylor, former CEO of Salesforce, and Larry Summers, former U.S. Treasury Secretary.
Bret Taylor praised Ogunlesi’s extensive experience, stating, “Ogunlesi has an exceptional track record of driving success in organizations with global reach, expertly navigating complex and dynamic commercial landscapes.”
Ogunlesi recently collaborated with BlackRock on a $30 billion fund to develop data centers and related power infrastructure. This initiative, supported by tech giants like Microsoft and Nvidia, positions him at the forefront of AI infrastructure development.
He shared his enthusiasm for joining OpenAI, noting that “thoughtful strategies and investment in infrastructure will be key to unlocking AI’s full potential and delivering its benefits responsibly.”
OpenAI, recently valued at $150 billion, plans to transition into a public benefit corporation. This change aims to balance investor profits with societal betterment, though it has sparked criticism from competitors, including Elon Musk.
Musk, an early OpenAI backer, has challenged the restructuring, pushing for legal intervention to reassess the company’s new structure. Delaware Attorney General Kathleen Jennings is also reviewing the company’s plans to ensure they align with public interest, signaling continued scrutiny of OpenAI’s evolution.
