OpenAI Loses Data Center Chief Amidst Executive Exodus

OpenAI has seen another key executive departure with Chris Malone, its former head of data centers, leaving the company last week. Malone's exit comes after a significant tenure, having previously worked at Meta and Google. His departure is particularly notable given the critical nature of data center strategy for AI infrastructure buildout.

Malone joined OpenAI shortly after the launch of the Stargate Project, a $500 million initiative involving major tech partners. OpenAI stated that its infrastructure organization was recently reorganized to support its growth, and that a capable data center team remains. However, Malone's reporting structure was changed prior to his exit.

This departure is part of a larger trend, with over a dozen executives having left OpenAI in 2026. Notable departures include the chief revenue officer and the former chief operating officer. Other senior figures, like the product and business chief, have also stepped down, some citing health reasons.

Departures have also affected OpenAI's safety and ethics teams. The company disbanded its preparedness team, which assessed catastrophic risks from AI models. These consistent exits have fueled speculation about the company's valuation and profitability as it reportedly prepares for an IPO in 2027.