OpenAI Special Projects Lead Brad Lightcap to Depart, Core Executive Role Previously Held as COO Undergoes Multiple Adjustments

Odaily News: Brad Lightcap, Special Projects Lead and former Chief Operating Officer (COO) at OpenAI, is set to leave the company. Over the past year, Lightcap's responsibilities at OpenAI have been adjusted multiple times, with his most recent role being in charge of "special projects."

Lightcap has long been a core member of OpenAI's management team. Earlier in 2026, during a company executive reshuffle, he transitioned from the COO position to lead special projects, overseeing cross-company matters including complex deals and strategic investments, reporting directly to CEO Sam Altman. His departure comes at a time when OpenAI is continuously expanding its commercialization efforts, advancing enterprise business, and pursuing strategic partnerships. Previously, the company had undergone multiple rounds of organizational restructuring, including transferring some COO responsibilities to other executives.

Brad Lightcap joined OpenAI in 2018, having previously worked at Y Combinator and JPMorgan. He has been one of the key operations and business leaders during OpenAI's transformation from a research institution into a commercial AI company. (The Information)