OpenAI has announced the appointment of Adebayo “Bayo” Ogunlesi to its Board of Directors, a move that underscores its commitment to advancing Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) responsibly while leveraging diverse global expertise.
Mr. Ogunlesi, the Founding Partner, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP)—a leading infrastructure investment firm—and a Senior Managing Director at BlackRock, brings unparalleled experience in corporate finance, infrastructure strategy, and global markets. His appointment strengthens OpenAI’s Board, complementing its expertise across technical AI safety, cybersecurity, regulatory frameworks, and governance.
Mr. Ogunlesi’s career highlights include over two decades at Credit Suisse, where he served in several senior roles, including Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Client Officer of the Investment Banking Division. He also chaired the Global Investment Banking Division and was a member of the Executive Board and Management Committee.
His vast experience extends beyond finance. Mr. Ogunlesi was formerly an attorney with Cravath, Swaine & Moore, a Law Clerk to Justice Thurgood Marshall of the U.S. Supreme Court, and a lecturer at Harvard and Yale Law Schools. He currently sits on the boards of BlackRock, Topgolf Callaway Brands, Kosmos Energy Holdings, and Terminal Investment Limited, showcasing his ability to navigate diverse industries.
As OpenAI accelerates its efforts to build AGI, the role of infrastructure investment and strategic oversight becomes increasingly critical. Bret Taylor, Chair of OpenAI’s Board, commented, “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.”
Mr. Ogunlesi echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the transformative potential of AI:
“The rapid advancement and development of AI offers a unique opportunity to build a better future. Thoughtful strategies and investment in infrastructure will be key to unlocking AI’s full potential and delivering its benefits responsibly. I’m excited to contribute to this effort and look forward to being a part of the OpenAI Board.”
As OpenAI continues to lead the way in AI development, Mr. Ogunlesi’s expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping its global strategy. His insights into infrastructure investment and economic growth will be critical as OpenAI navigates the challenges and opportunities presented by the global transformation of AI.
This appointment signals OpenAI’s dedication to fostering innovation responsibly and sustainably, ensuring that AGI is developed to benefit all of humanity.
