Microsoft meticulously prepared its San Francisco and LinkedIn offices for the anticipated surge of departing OpenAI employees following Sam Altman’s departure. Implementing comprehensive measures, such as redesigning office spaces and meticulously readying MacBook laptops, the company braced itself for a potential influx. This proactive stance underscored Microsoft’s commitment to seamlessly integrating OpenAI professionals into its workforce.
As the anticipation grew, news broke that Altman, ousted as OpenAI’s CEO by the board in an unforeseen move on Friday, had found a new home at Microsoft. This transition saw Altman taking the helm of the tech giant’s advanced AI research team, a strategic move orchestrated by Microsoft’s CEO, Satya Nadella.
In response to this strategic acquisition, Nadella expressed not only his satisfaction with the changes to the OpenAI board but also his readiness to welcome OpenAI employees contemplating departure after Altman’s sudden exit. This commitment extended beyond mere rhetoric, with Microsoft reportedly investing over $10 billion in the AI firm, owning a substantial 49% stake.
Beyond financial commitments, Microsoft went a step further, preparing dedicated spaces at its LinkedIn offices in San Francisco, strategically located just a 10-minute drive from OpenAI’s headquarters. Sources familiar with the matter revealed that the company had readied not only office spaces but also MacBook laptops and training clusters, ensuring a seamless onboarding process for potential recruits.
To facilitate the hiring and onboarding process, Microsoft had HR and legal teams on standby, highlighting the meticulous planning and commitment to a smooth transition for OpenAI employees.
However, as the stage was set for this significant integration, a surprising twist unfolded. Altman, in an unexpected turn of events, announced his return as OpenAI’s CEO on Wednesday morning. This decision, made with the explicit support of Microsoft’s leadership, signified a profound shift in the unfolding narrative.
Nadella, responding on a public platform, conveyed his encouragement for the changes within the OpenAI board, viewing them as an essential step towards more stable, well-informed, and effective governance. This public exchange underscored the collaborative spirit and shared vision between Altman and Microsoft’s leadership.
In the wake of Altman’s initial removal, OpenAI’s staff exhibited unwavering support, with 95% of the workforce signing a letter expressing their commitment to quitting and joining Altman at Microsoft unless he was reinstated and the board resigned.
Reflecting Microsoft’s commitment to attracting top talent, CTO Kevin Scott announced on Tuesday that the company would not only welcome OpenAI employees but also match their compensation, further solidifying Microsoft’s position as an attractive destination for professionals in the AI field.
