OpenAI Welcomes BlackRock Executive to Its Board
OpenAI has announced a significant addition to its board of directors with the appointment of Adebayo "Bayo" Ogunlesi, a prominent executive from BlackRock. Ogunlesi, who serves as a senior managing director at the investment firm and CEO of Global Infrastructure Partners, will bring his extensive experience to the company.
On Tuesday, OpenAI confirmed Ogunlesi's new role, with Board Chairman Bret Taylor praising his "exceptional track record of driving success in organizations with global reach." Taylor highlighted Ogunlesi's ability to navigate complex commercial environments, an asset that is expected to greatly benefit OpenAI's future endeavors.
A Distinguished Career in Finance and Law
Ogunlesi's impressive career spans over two decades at Credit Suisse, where he occupied various strategic positions, including executive vice chairman of the investment banking division. Prior to his tenure at Credit Suisse, he gained experience as an attorney for the New York law firm Cravath, Swaine & Moore, and as a law clerk to Thurgood Marshall, the first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice.
In addition to his new responsibilities at OpenAI, Ogunlesi holds positions on several other boards, including those of BlackRock, Topgolf Callaway Brands, Kosmos Energy Holdings, and Terminal Investment Limited.
Expressing his enthusiasm for joining OpenAI, Ogunlesi stated, "The rapid advancement and development of AI offers a unique opportunity to build a better future. As part of this, thoughtful strategies and investment in infrastructure will be key to unlocking AI's full potential and delivering its benefits responsibly. I'm excited to contribute to this effort and look forward to being a part of the OpenAI board."
OpenAI's Evolving Leadership Structure
This appointment marks another step in the evolution of OpenAI's board, which underwent major changes after a significant restructuring in late 2023. Following the temporary firing and subsequent reinstatement of CEO Sam Altman, the board was reshuffled per Altman's conditions for his return.
The current board includes influential figures such as Quora CEO Adam D’Angelo, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation CEO Sue Desmond-Hellmann, former NSA director Paul M. Nakasone, former Sony Corporation of America President Nicole Seligman, Instacart CEO Fidji Simo, economist Larry Summers, and Carnegie Mellon computer scientist Zico Kolter. Notably, D'Angelo is the only member who served on the previous board.