Barret Zoph, formerly a key executive at AI startup Thinking Machines Lab, has rejoined OpenAI shortly after his dismissal from the company founded and led by Mira Murati. Official statements from both companies confirm his departure from Thinking Machines and subsequent rehiring at OpenAI, underscoring rapid shifts within the AI industry's talent landscape.
The controversy began when Zoph was reportedly terminated by Thinking Machines due to allegations of unethical behavior. Technology reporter Kylie Robison first publicized the news via the social media platform X, describing the grounds for Zoph's dismissal as related to "unethical conduct." Although specifics were initially scarce, further details emerged indicating accusations that Zoph shared proprietary company information with competitors.
In response to Zoph's departure, Murati confirmed the executive's exit on X and simultaneously announced a leadership change involving Soumith Chintala stepping into the role of chief technology officer at Thinking Machines. This transition comes amidst rising challenges for the startup, which has navigated recent losses in its leadership team.
Meanwhile, OpenAI moved decisively to reclaim the talent, with Fidji Simo, OpenAI's CEO of applications, announcing on X that both Barret Zoph and Luke Metz would return to the organization. Zoph himself expressed enthusiasm about rejoining OpenAI, sharing that he was "super excited" about the opportunity.
Further information provided to Wired by an individual familiar with Thinking Machines revealed that Zoph informed Murati of his possible departure on the preceding Monday. However, by Wednesday, Thinking Machines had proceeded with his termination. A memo circulated among employees, authored by Simo and reviewed by Wired, indicated that OpenAI does not share Murati's concerns regarding Zoph's conduct, suggesting a divergence of views between the two companies on the matter.
Zoph was not immediately available for comment when approached by Benzinga, leaving some questions about his perspective on the situation unanswered.
This development represents yet another setback for Thinking Machines Lab, once considered one of the most ambitious ventures in the AI sector. The startup has experienced notable executive churn, including the high-profile departure of co-founder Andrew Tulloch, who left to join Meta Platforms, Inc. last year.
Financially, Thinking Machines was last valued at approximately $12 billion and has been engaged in fundraising discussions targeting upwards of $4 billion at a $50 billion valuation. However, these aspirations may be complicated by the recent turnover and associated leadership upheavals.
In summary, the resignation and firing of Barret Zoph amid allegations of misconduct, followed by his prompt return to OpenAI, highlights the intricate challenges AI startups face regarding talent retention, ethical standards, and competitive dynamics. Meanwhile, leadership changes continue to shape the trajectory of Thinking Machines Lab as it attempts to scale and secure its financial footing in a rapidly evolving market.