OpenAI Interim CEO urges focus, stresses Microsoft support

OpenAI Interim Chief Executive Officer Mira Murati was “honored and humbled” to step into the leadership role at the company following the ouster of Sam Altman, according to a memo she sent to staff reviewed by Bloomberg.

Murati also urged employees still reeling from the sudden departure of Altman, one of the most prominent figures in the artificial intelligence industry, to focus on their work. “It’s more important than ever that we stay focused, driven, and true to our core values,” she wrote.

In the immediate aftermath of the announcement, speculation was rife that Microsoft Corp., the world’s largest maker of software and OpenAI’s biggest backer, might have been involved in his removal.