OpenAI CEO Sam Altman reassured employees and the public that the company has never revoked any employee’s vested equity, and they do not plan to do so in the future. This clarification comes in response to a recent media report suggesting that the AI company had clawed back vested equity from departing employees.
Altman emphasized that vested equity is precisely that – vested, and it will not be taken away from employees who have earned it. He acknowledged that there was a provision regarding potential equity cancellation in previous exit documents but clarified that this was a mistake that is being rectified.
Moving forward, Altman stated that OpenAI will not include any clauses related to equity clawbacks in their exit paperwork. He also offered to address any concerns from former employees who may have signed previous agreements containing such provisions.
Altman’s transparency and commitment to rectifying the situation demonstrate OpenAI’s dedication to upholding fair practices and treating employees with respect. The company’s pledge to never claw back vested equity provides reassurance to current and past employees alike.
