OpenAI's applications chief Fidji Simo to step down

Fidji Simo, OpenAI's chief of applications, is stepping down from her full-time position at the artificial intelligence company to focus on recovering from a serious chronic illness. Simo announced Thursday that she will transition to a part-time advisory role after an extended medical leave.

Simo explained in a post on X that her recovery from a severe exacerbation of a seven-year chronic illness has proven to be a longer and more complex process than initially anticipated. This realization prompted her decision to prioritize her health and dedicate her full attention to recuperating.

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Three months ago, I had to go on medical leave after a severe exacerbation of a chronic illness I’ve lived with for seven years. During that time, it became clear that the road to recovery would be much longer and more complex than I had anticipated, and that I needed to focus on it fully.

Simo joined OpenAI's board in March 2024, becoming one of three directors appointed following Sam Altman's return as CEO. Her departure marks a significant change for the company, which has seen rapid growth and development in its AI applications, including the widely used ChatGPT.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman expressed his regret over Simo's decision, stating on X, "I am really sad about this and very grateful for all Fidji has done for OpenAI, and even grateful for her friendship and who she is as a person." Altman's message conveyed both professional appreciation and personal warmth towards Simo.

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I am really sad about this and very grateful for all Fidji has done for OpenAI, and even grateful for her friendship and who she is as a person.