Fidji Simo, OpenAI's second-in-command, is transitioning to a part-time advisory role after her prolonged medical leave due to a neuroimmune condition.Her departure marks a significant shift for the company as Sam Altman seeks a successor amid plans for an IPO.Simo joined OpenAI in 2025 as CEO of Applications, overseeing business and product operations, and previously led Instacart through its 2023 IPO.

Her exit creates a leadership vacuum, especially since OpenAI's consumer business growth has slowed, prompting a focus on coding tools despite trailing Anthropic.

The article also highlights OpenAI's executive changes, including Brad Lightcap's reassignment and Kevin Weil's departure, as well as the company's aggressive equity policies to retain talent.Altman expressed personal gratitude for Simo's contributions, underscoring her impact on OpenAI's trajectory.