Helen Toner, a former member of OpenAI’s board who played a role in the departure of CEO Sam Altman in November, has finally spoken out. She shared insights into the internal events at the company preceding Altman’s dismissal during a podcast released on Tuesday.
Toner provided an example: When OpenAI launched ChatGPT in November 2022, the board wasn’t pre-informed and discovered it via Twitter. She also revealed that Altman didn’t disclose his ownership of the OpenAI startup fund to the board.
Altman assumed the CEO position shortly after being fired, but Toner’s remarks shed light on the decision’s rationale for the first time.
Toner emphasized the nonprofit board’s role in prioritizing the company’s public good mission over profits and investor interests. However, she expressed frustration with Altman’s behavior, stating that he often withheld information, misrepresented company matters, and even lied to the board. This pattern eroded the board’s trust in Altman’s communication.
Altman provided the board with inaccurate information regarding the company’s safety processes on multiple occasions, according to Toner. Despite Altman’s ability to explain away individual instances, the cumulative effect over years led to a breakdown in trust. Toner stressed the necessity for a board to provide independent oversight, which became unfeasible given the lack of confidence in Altman’s communication.
Toner disclosed that efforts were made to address these issues before Altman’s removal. In October, the board had discussions with two executives who shared concerns about Altman’s leadership, citing instances of mistrust and a toxic work environment.
Regarding the recent disbandment of OpenAI’s long-term AI risk team, Toner’s comments and the departures of key personnel come amid ongoing leadership challenges. Last November, Altman was ousted by the board due to inconsistencies in communication, triggering resignations and upheaval within the organization.
Altman’s reinstatement, followed by the departure of board members Toner and Tasha McCauley, further complicated the situation. However, the new board, which includes Altman, has been established, and an internal investigation by WilmerHale concluded that there was a breakdown of trust between the prior board and Altman and co-founder Greg Brockman.
Read More: Former OpenAI safety leader Jan Leike joins rival AI startup Anthropic
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