OpenAI has announced the appointment of Adebayo Ogunlesi, a seasoned global investor and infrastructure expert, to its Board of Directors. Ogunlesi, who serves as the Founding Partner, Chairman, and CEO of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) and is a Senior Managing Director at BlackRock, brings a wealth of experience in finance, corporate strategy, and infrastructure investments to OpenAI’s mission of advancing artificial general intelligence (AGI).
Ogunlesi’s appointment signals OpenAI’s commitment to building a diverse and experienced leadership team to guide the responsible development and deployment of AI. Ogunlesi brings a wealth of knowledge in global finance and infrastructure development, which will complement the board’s collective knowledge across technical, regulatory, cybersecurity, and governance domains.
In a statement, Bret Taylor, Chair of OpenAI’s Board, said: “Bayo has an exceptional track record of driving success in organizations with global reach, expertly navigating complex and dynamic commercial landscapes. We’re honored to welcome him to the Board.”
Ogunlesi echoed the sentiment, pointing out the transformative potential of AI: “The rapid advancement and development of AI offers a unique opportunity to build a better future. Thoughtful strategies and investment in infrastructure will be key to unlocking AI’s full potential and delivering its benefits responsibly. I’m excited to contribute to this effort and look forward to being a part of the OpenAI Board.”
A Distinguished Career of Global Impact
Ogunlesi’s career spans decades of leadership in some of the world’s most influential organizations. Before founding GIP in 2006, he spent 23 years at Credit Suisse, where he held senior positions, including Executive Vice Chairman and Head of Global Investment Banking. His early career includes serving as an attorney at Cravath, Swaine & Moore and clerking for Justice Thurgood Marshall, the first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice.
An Oxford graduate with degrees in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics, Ogunlesi also holds a J.D. and an M.B.A. from Harvard University. In addition to his new role at OpenAI, he sits on the boards of companies like BlackRock, Topgolf Callaway Brands, Kosmos Energy Holdings, and Terminal Investment Limited.
OpenAI’s Evolving Board of Directors
Ogunlesi joins OpenAI’s restructured board, which underwent significant changes after the 2023 reinstatement of CEO Sam Altman. The current board includes notable figures such as Quora CEO Adam D’Angelo, Instacart CEO Fidji Simo, former NSA director Paul M. Nakasone, economist Larry Summers, and others. OpenAI’s intention to combine technical expertise with robust governance and strategic guidance is evident in the diverse range of backgrounds represented on this group.
As OpenAI continues its push toward building AGI, Ogunlesi’s addition signals a focus on infrastructure and thoughtful growth. His leadership will be instrumental in helping OpenAI scale AI responsibly while driving innovation and fostering global economic development.
Ogunlesi’s appointment marks another significant step for OpenAI as it assembles a team of industry-leading minds to shape the future of artificial intelligence, ensuring its benefits reach communities worldwide.
