OpenAI, the San Francisco-based artificial intelligence company, has reinstated CEO Sam Altman to its board of directors following the conclusion of an outside investigation into the company's recent turmoil. OpenAI expressed "full confidence" in Altman's leadership and stated that his ousting in November was a result of a breakdown in trust between him and the previous board.

The investigation, conducted by law firm WilmerHale, found that Altman's removal was due to a breakdown in his relationship with the prior board, resulting in a loss of trust. OpenAI, in a summary of the findings, revealed that the prior board acted within its discretion, but Altman's conduct did not mandate his removal. Altman and Greg Brockman, the company's chairman, were both rehired after just a few days.

In an effort to move past the internal conflicts that almost destroyed the company and garnered global attention, OpenAI also announced the addition of three women to its board of directors. The new members are Dr. Sue Desmond-Hellman, former CEO of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; Nicole Seligman, former Sony general counsel; and Fidji Simo, CEO of Instacart.

Altman expressed his relief that the investigation had concluded and expressed his disappointment in "people with an agenda" leaking information to harm the company and its mission. He acknowledged his role in a dispute with a former board member and apologized for not handling it with more grace and care.

In response to the reinstatement of Altman and the new board appointments, ex-board members Helen Toner and Tasha McCauley issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of accountability when developing potentially world-changing technology like OpenAI's. They wished the new board well and highlighted the need for thorough oversight.

OpenAI had initially provided little information about Altman's firing last November, stating concerns about his communication and hindrance of the board's responsibilities. The investigation clarified that the firing was not related to product safety, security, financial issues, or statements made to investors, customers, or business partners.

The conflicts within OpenAI have largely stemmed from its unique governance structure. Originally founded as a nonprofit with a mission to safely develop futuristic AI for the benefit of humanity, the company has now grown into a prominent business still governed by a nonprofit board. OpenAI plans to make improvements to its corporate governance and has pledged to adopt new guidelines, strengthen conflict of interest policies, establish a whistleblower hotline, and create additional board committees.

Although OpenAI still faces challenges, including a lawsuit from former board co-chair Elon Musk, the company remains committed to its mission of pursuing artificial general intelligence that benefits all of humanity. OpenAI will continue to operate as a mission-driven nonprofit while striving for its vision.

The findings of the investigation and the reinstatement of Altman, along with the new board appointments, are a clear indication of OpenAI's determination to move past its internal conflicts and focus on its mission to advance artificial intelligence technology.