OpenAI is actively seeking a new Head of Preparedness to enhance its safety strategy amid rising concerns about the impacts of its AI models, particularly ChatGPT. The role comes in response to various allegations related to users' mental health, including wrongful death lawsuits. CEO Sam Altman emphasized the significance of this position, noting the challenges posed by AI advancements.
The Head of Preparedness will earn an annual salary of $555,000, alongside equity, and will be responsible for the implementation of OpenAI's Preparedness framework, which aims to address risks associated with emerging AI capabilities. Altman described the position as demanding and immediate, indicating that new hires will face substantial challenges right away.
Changes within OpenAI’s safety teams have been notable over recent years. The previous Head of Preparedness, Aleksander Madry, was reassigned in July 2024, with plans for execs Joaquin Quinonero Candela and Lilian Weng to take over. However, Weng departed shortly after, and by July 2025, Quinonero Candela transitioned to a recruiting role, leaving the preparedness team without stable leadership.