>Fidji Simo steps down from OpenAI's No. 2 role as CEO of Applications

Fidji Simo, OpenAI’s No. 2 executive, is stepping down from her full-time role as CEO of Applications, the Wall Street Journal reports.

Fidji Simo joined OpenAI’s board of directors in 2024 and joined OpenAI in May 2025, taking on the role of CEO of Applications, a position that consolidated the company's business and product operations.

Simo will transition to a part-time advisory role, a decision she announced in a staff note. The note acknowledged that her ongoing medical leave has proven longer and harder than expected.

Fidji Simo's departure comes as OpenAI continues to navigate its leadership structure and adapt to industry changes. The company, founded by Elon Musk and Sam Altman, has faced criticism over its handling of AI development and its impact on the job market.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Sam Altman will take over Simo's responsibilities as CEO of Applications, adding another layer of responsibility to his existing role as CEO of OpenAI. Simo’s decision to step down as CEO of Applications raises questions about the direction of the company under Altman’s leadership.

Simo's medical leave has been ongoing for several months, a fact that was not previously disclosed to the public. As CEO of Applications, Simo was responsible for overseeing the development of OpenAI’s various products and services, including its popular language model, ChatGPT.

Her departure is the latest in a series of leadership changes at OpenAI, which has struggled to maintain a consistent leadership trajectory. The company's stock price has also taken a hit in recent months, casting a shadow over its future prospects.

Fidji Simo will continue to serve on OpenAI's board of directors in a part-time capacity, providing guidance and expertise to the company as it navigates its next phase of growth and development.

The impact of Simo's departure on OpenAI's investors and employees remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: the company's leadership structure will undergo significant changes in the coming months, as it seeks to adapt to a rapidly evolving industry.

Fidji Simo's departure from OpenAI highlights the challenges faced by tech companies in maintaining a stable leadership structure. As AI continues to revolutionize industries around the world, OpenAI's leadership will face increasing scrutiny as it seeks to drive innovation and growth.

Simo’s departure marks a new chapter in OpenAI's history, one that will likely be marked by significant changes and upheaval. The company's commitment to AI development and its impact on the job market will continue to be a major focus area for Simo as she transitions to a part-time advisory role.

OpenAI's leadership will be under the microscope in the coming months as it navigates the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapid growth of AI.

OpenAI has not disclosed whether Simo will receive any severance package or compensation for her part-time advisory role.