OpenAI has appointed retired Army Gen. Paul Nakasone, former commander of U.S. Cyber Command and director of the National Security Agency, to its board of directors and its newly formed safety and security committee.
The decision aims to bolster the organization against increasingly sophisticated threats from malicious actors. Nakasone brings extensive experience in cybersecurity and intelligence, having served at the highest levels of U.S. defense and intelligence agencies until his retirement earlier this year.
The appointment of Nakasone comes amidst a period of restructuring for OpenAI’s leadership. The company underwent significant board changes following internal upheaval that led to the dismissal and subsequent reinstatement of CEO Sam Altman.
OpenAI has expressed confidence in Altman’s leadership following external investigations into the company’s internal dynamics. The board, although structured as a nonprofit entity, also oversees OpenAI’s rapidly expanding commercial ventures.
In addition to joining the board of directors, Nakasone will contribute to OpenAI’s newly established safety and security committee. This committee is tasked with advising on critical decisions related to the safety and security of OpenAI’s projects and operations.
It replaces a previous safety team that saw key members depart, reflecting a renewed focus on enhancing safeguards amid the organization’s growth and evolving technological capabilities.
Nakasone’s career trajectory underscores his expertise in managing complex cybersecurity challenges. Initially appointed to lead the Army branch of U.S.
Cyber Command, he was later chosen by President Donald Trump to helm the NSA and continue his leadership of U.S. Cyber Command, roles he maintained into President Joe Biden’s administration before retiring earlier this year.
OpenAI’s strategic move to integrate Nakasone into its governance and security framework highlights the company’s proactive stance in fortifying its defenses against potential threats while navigating internal governance challenges.
His addition underscores a commitment to leveraging top-tier expertise to safeguard OpenAI’s innovations and operations in an increasingly competitive and security-conscious landscape.
