BlackRock Inc. executiv Adebayo Ogunlesi has joined OpenAI’s board of directors. The billionaire investor has experience in infrastructure investing, aligning with OpenAI’s to expand data centers and energy resources to grow AI development.
Ogunlesi, a senior managing director and board member at BlackRock, joined the company last year after it bought his previous business, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), for around $12 billion, making him a billionaire.
Who is Adebayo Ogunlesi?
Ogunlesi created GIP in 2006 before spending 23 years at Credit Suisse, holding several senior positions such as Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Client Officer of its Investment Banking Division. He was also the Head of the Global Investment Banking Division and a Member of the Executive Board and Management Committee from 2002 to 2004.
Ogunlesi also worked as an attorney with the New York law firm of Cravath, Swaine & Moore and taught courses on transnational investment projects as a lecturer at Harvard and Yale Law Schools. In addition to being a member of the BlackRock boards of Directors, he is also a member of the Dean’s Advisory Boards of the Harvard Law and Business Schools and the Harvard University Global Advisory Council.
How will Ogunlesi’s role help OpenAI?
Bloomberg reported that OpenAI previously stated that its board was coming out with a plan to shift from a nonprofit research organization into a public benefit corporation. So, Ogunlesi joining the company could sway investors; however, collaboration and coordination from the company’s board, investors, and regulators are essential.
Read: OpenAI Responds To Congressional Black Caucus’ Call For Board Diversity
“Mr. Ogunlesi’s counsel will be invaluable as we navigate the global transformation of AI infrastructure, drive innovation, and foster economic growth,” OpenAI said in a press release.
“Bayo has an exceptional track record of driving success in organizations with global reach, expertly navigating complex and dynamic commercial landscapes. We’re honored to welcome him to the Board,” added Bret Taylor, Chair of OpenAI’s Board.
Image: Bloomberg/Victor J. Blue
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