OpenAI’s Fidji Simo Steps Down From Full-Time Role, Becomes Part-Time Advisor
4 verified4 unconfirmed2 contested
Fidji Simo, a top executive at OpenAI, is stepping down from her full-time role and transitioning to a part-time advisory position, citing a prolonged medical leave. Simo, who joined the company in May 2025 as CEO of Applications, had taken medical leave in April 2026 due to a neuroimmune condition. She announced the change in a staff note and on X, stating that her recovery has been longer and harder than expected. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman responded on X, expressing gratitude for her contributions and wishing her a speedy recovery. Simo’s departure comes as OpenAI continues to experience leadership changes and shifts in its organizational structure.
What’s verified
Fidji Simo is stepping down from her full-time role at OpenAI and transitioning to a part-time advisor.
Simo took medical leave in April 2026 due to a neuroimmune condition.
Simo joined OpenAI in May 2025 as CEO of Applications.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman responded on X, calling the situation “really sad” and expressing gratitude for Simo’s work and friendship.
Where accounts differ
One source reports that Simo was serving as OpenAI’s AGI chief; the other source describes her as the company’s No. 2 executive but does not specify that title.
One source states that COO Brad Lightcap, CFO Sarah Friar, and CPO Kevin Weil began reporting to Simo when she joined; the other source does not mention those reporting lines and instead says that during her leave, president Greg Brockman took charge of product while CSO Jason Kwon, CFO Sarah Friar, and CRO Denise Dresser led the business side.
Not yet confirmed
Simo’s specific role title at the time of her departure (AGI chief vs. No. 2 executive) is reported differently by the two sources.
The exact timeline of other executive departures—such as Kevin Weil’s exit and Kate Rouch’s health leave—is mentioned in only one source.
OpenAI’s recent product launches (GPT-5.6 family and ChatGPT Work) are reported only by one source and are not confirmed by the other.
The reason for the shift in Simo’s responsibilities after she took medical leave is not fully explained.
Key figures
Fidji Simo (departing OpenAI executive)
Sam Altman (OpenAI CEO)
Brad Lightcap (OpenAI COO, transitioned to special projects)
Kate Rouch (OpenAI CMO, stepped down for health)
Kevin Weil (OpenAI CPO, left company)
Greg Brockman (OpenAI president)
Sources: TechCrunch, The Verge
