Nigerian-born global business leader, Adebayo Ogunlesi, has joined the Board of Directors at OpenAI, marking a significant milestone in the company’s mission to advance artificial intelligence responsibly. Ogunlesi, renowned for his exceptional leadership and expertise, serves as the Founding Partner, Chairman, and CEO of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a premier infrastructure investment platform. He is also a Senior Managing Director at BlackRock.
OpenAI has highlighted Ogunlesi’s extensive experience in corporate finance, infrastructure investment, and global market strategy as vital assets to the organization. The company emphasized that his appointment strengthens the Board’s capabilities across critical areas such as AI safety, cybersecurity, regulatory frameworks, economics, and governance.
“Mr. Ogunlesi’s counsel will be invaluable as we navigate the global transformation of AI infrastructure, drive innovation, and foster economic growth,” OpenAI stated in an official release. Bret Taylor, Chair of OpenAI’s Board, lauded Ogunlesi’s impressive career, saying, “Bayo has an exceptional track record of driving success in organizations with global reach, expertly navigating complex and dynamic commercial landscapes. We’re honored to welcome him to the Board.”
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Ogunlesi’s illustrious career spans decades. Before founding GIP in 2006, he spent 23 years at Credit Suisse, holding senior positions including Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Client Officer of the Investment Banking Division. He also served as Head of the Global Investment Banking Division and was a member of the Executive Board and Management Committee.
An accomplished attorney, Ogunlesi began his legal career at the prestigious New York law firm Cravath, Swaine & Moore and served as a law clerk to the legendary U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall. He has taught at Harvard and Yale, focusing on transnational investment projects.
Ogunlesi’s academic achievements are equally notable, holding a B.A. in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from Oxford University, a J.D. from Harvard Law School, and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School. He currently serves on the boards of BlackRock, Topgolf Callaway Brands, Kosmos Energy Holdings, and Terminal Investment Limited. His previous roles include serving as Lead Director of Goldman Sachs Group.
