OpenAI is undergoing a wave of internal upheaval after nearly half a dozen reorganisations this year, as Sam Altman pushes the ChatGPT maker toward a potential blockbuster IPO. Repeated executive reshuffles and a string of senior departures have left staff frustrated with constant change at one of the world’s most valuable private companies.

This week, chief revenue officer Denise Dresser announced her departure, following the exits of former CFO and COO Brad Lightcap and ethics chief Chloé Bakalar. Fidji Simo moved from her full‑time role to an advisory position, while OpenAI disbanded its “preparedness” team, reallocating safety duties across existing units.

The company frames these moves as streamlining ahead of an IPO that could value it at $1tn. Revenue rose from $24bn to successor, with GPT‑5.6 driving growth, but Anthropic’s five‑fold jump to $47bn has intensified competition, prompting a sharper focus on corporate clients and safety integration.

Staff have expressed burnout and frustration, citing frequent reorganisations. An almost $7bn share buyback offered an exit, while investors note turnover rates. Some view the changes as necessary cleanup, though concerns remain about focus and readiness for one of the largest public debuts ever.