OpenAI Loses Head of Enterprise AI Sales After Just Five Months
Photo: The Verge
Quick answer
Barret Zoph, who led OpenAI's enterprise AI sales division, has resigned just five months after returning to the company.
OpenAI has confirmed the departure of Barret Zoph, who served as the head of its enterprise AI sales division. His return to OpenAI in January 2026, following his tenure at Thinking Machines Lab, lasted just five months. At OpenAI, Zoph managed a strategically vital area focused on commercializing AI products for businesses, a priority ahead of the planned IPO.
Previously, Zoph left OpenAI in late 2024 to join Thinking Machines Lab—a company founded by former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati. However, he returned to OpenAI in January 2026 alongside two other employees. His departure from Thinking Machines Lab was reportedly due to internal conflicts, though no official comments were made on the matter.
Zoph's exit occurs amid strained relations between OpenAI and Thinking Machines Lab. Mira Murati, who led OpenAI during Sam Altman's temporary removal in November 2023, later testified in court, criticizing Altman. Despite this, several key employees have returned to OpenAI, highlighting the complex dynamics in the AI industry.
Common questions
- Why did Barret Zoph leave OpenAI?
- The reasons for his departure remain undisclosed, though Zoph previously left Thinking Machines Lab due to internal conflicts. At OpenAI, he led a key enterprise AI sales division.
- What was Zoph's role at OpenAI?
- He oversaw the enterprise AI sales division, a critical area for OpenAI as it prepares for its IPO and shifts focus away from secondary projects.
- How are OpenAI and Thinking Machines Lab connected?
- Thinking Machines Lab was founded by former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati. Several employees, including Zoph, transitioned from OpenAI to the startup before returning.
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