Fidji Simo, OpenAI's CEO of Applications, announced on July 9 that she is leaving her full-time role and transitioning to a part-time advisor. She took medical leave three months ago following a severe exacerbation of a chronic illness she has managed for seven years, and concluded her recovery needs more time than expected.
Simo joined OpenAI in August 2025 after leading Instacart as CEO, taking charge of the business and operational teams that bring OpenAI's research to consumers. Her responsibilities will now be split between OpenAI President Greg Brockman, CFO Sarah Friar, and Chief Strategy Officer Jason Kwon, while Chief Revenue Officer Denise Dresser moves into Brockman's reporting chain. As advisor, Simo will keep focusing on consumer products, ads, and health initiatives.
Sam Altman said he was "really sad" about the move but grateful for her contributions, while Simo said the decision let her keep contributing to OpenAI's mission "without sacrificing my chances of recovery."