OpenAI Executive Fidji Simo Steps Down From Full-Time Role to Part-Time Advisor

Fidji Simo is stepping down from her full-time executive role at OpenAI and will transition to a part-time advisor position. Simo announced the decision Thursday in a post on X. She said she took medical leave three months earlier after a severe exacerbation of postural tachycardia syndrome, which she was diagnosed with in 2019.

The road to recovery has become longer and more complex than expected, she wrote. "It has been a jarring experience to spend my days helping build the future while simultaneously navigating a disabling disease that still has no cure," Simo wrote. She thanked OpenAI's board, CEO Sam Altman, and President Greg Brockman for their support.

Simo joined OpenAI's board of directors in March 2024. Altman hired her the following year to lead the company's product and business organizations. She previously served as CEO of Instacart and head of the Facebook app at Meta.

Altman responded on X that he was sad about the departure and grateful for Simo's contributions and friendship. He wished her a speedy recovery. OpenAI reorganized product teams in her absence, naming Thibault Sottiaux head of core products including ChatGPT.

The company is planning an IPO expected in 2027 and is reportedly targeting a valuation of $1 trillion. Simo had postponed medical tests and therapies to stay focused on work, she told staff in an April memo.