OpenAI has appointed retired U.S. Army General Paul M. Nakasone, a former director of the National Security Agency (NSA), to its board of directors. Nakasone, a leading expert in cybersecurity, technology advancement, and global cyber defense, will also serve on the board's Safety and Security Committee. This committee is tasked with making critical recommendations to safeguard OpenAI's systems and operations.
Nakasone's appointment comes at a time when OpenAI is facing scrutiny and criticism regarding its security practices and product safety. The company has been under the spotlight following the departure of several key employees and a public letter calling for changes to its practices.
excited for general paul nakasone to join the openai board for many reasons, including the critical importance of adding safety and security expertise as we head into our next phase. https://t.co/GhEycjgg27
— Sam Altman (@sama) June 14, 2024
Nakasone's extensive experience in the Army, U.S. Cyber Command, and the NSA will undoubtedly contribute to OpenAI's efforts to strengthen its cybersecurity measures and quickly detect and respond to potential threats. His insights will also be valuable as OpenAI explores how AI can be used to enhance cybersecurity for institutions frequently targeted by cyber attacks, such as hospitals, schools, and financial institutions.
OpenAI Board Chair Bret Taylor emphasized the importance of secure AI development, stating, "General Nakasone's unparalleled experience in areas like cybersecurity will help guide OpenAI in achieving its mission of ensuring artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity."
Nakasone joins OpenAI's board following a shake-up that included the temporary ousting of CEO Sam Altman in November 2023. Other board members include Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, Bret Taylor, and Sue Desmond-Hellmann.