OpenAI has officially removed the non-disparagement clause from exit agreements for ex-employees, as confirmed by the company in a recent internal memo. This change comes after reports surfaced regarding the strict policies that former employees had to adhere to, which included the threat of losing equity if they criticized the company publicly.
In the memo, OpenAI assured both current and former employees that any Vested Units would not be canceled, regardless of whether they had signed the non-disparagement agreements. The company also stated that they would not enforce any other non-disparagement or non-solicitation clauses that employees may have signed upon departure.
Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, acknowledged the oversight and apologized for the situation. He took to Twitter to express his embarrassment and assured former employees that the standard exit paperwork was being revised to rectify the issue. Altman emphasized that the company aims to uphold its values and create a more inclusive environment for all individuals associated with OpenAI.
The decision to remove the non-disparagement clause comes after criticism from various quarters, including leaked emails that revealed the company’s aggressive tactics to silence dissent. The policy had been perceived as unfair, as it forced ex-employees to choose between valuable equity and their freedom of expression. OpenAI’s commitment to address this issue marks a significant step towards fostering a more transparent and accountable workplace culture.
As OpenAI continues to make amends and improve its exit process, the move to release former employees from onerous contractual obligations reflects a positive shift in the company’s approach. By prioritizing employee well-being and freedom of speech, OpenAI demonstrates a willingness to listen to feedback and evolve in line with its core values.
