OpenAI COO Brad Lightcap Departs to Launch New Venture

Chief Operating Officer Brad Lightcap is departing OpenAI after eight years to launch a new venture. Lightcap joined the company in 2018 and assumed the COO role in 2022, where he managed finance, legal, corporate security, and strategic partnerships.

His exit follows a phased transition that began in April 2026, when Lightcap moved from day-to-day operations to a role focused on special projects and complex deals. Because of this prior shift, OpenAI does not expect his departure to disrupt current operations.

The move is part of a broader leadership reshaping as the company prepares for continued expansion and a potential public offering. This restructuring also includes Fidji Simo, who recently transitioned from a full-time leadership role to a part-time advisory position. Lightcap stated he is leaving to "start something new" but intends to continue supporting the company from a different position.