In a significant move, OpenAI has appointed Paul M. Nakasone, a retired US Army general and former head of the National Security Agency (NSA), to its board of directors. His addition is geared towards enhancing OpenAI's cybersecurity capabilities, leveraging his extensive experience in the field. Nakasone, who led the NSA from 2018 until February of this year, is noted for his role in strengthening US cybersecurity efforts. His appointment comes as OpenAI aims to ensure its AI innovations are securely developed and deployed.
Nakasone will join OpenAI’s Safety and Security Committee, prioritizing rapid detection and response to cybersecurity threats. This is part of OpenAI’s broader strategy to harness artificial intelligence for strengthening cybersecurity. Recent changes at OpenAI include departures tied to safety concerns, highlighting the importance of Nakasone's cybersecurity expertise in navigating and bolstering the company's safety culture.
Board chair Bret Taylor emphasized that artificial intelligence holds immense potential for positive impacts, but this can only be realized through securely built innovations. General Nakasone’s unparalleled experience in cybersecurity is expected to guide OpenAI towards achieving its mission of creating AI that benefits all of humanity. The board now includes notable members such as CEO Sam Altman, Adam D’Angelo, Larry Summers, and others, as well as Microsoft’s Dee Templeton in a non-voting observer capacity.