Brad Lightcap, one of OpenAI's longest-serving executives, is leaving the AI lab to "start something new." Lightcap, who joined the company in 2018, shared an internal message online on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, stating it was "bittersweet to share that I'll be moving on from OpenAI to start something new."
Lightcap spent four years as OpenAI's chief financial officer before becoming chief operating officer in 2022. Earlier this year, amidst an executive shakeup, he transitioned to lead special projects at the company. He previously worked with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman at Y-Combinator.
In his message, Lightcap hinted at a future venture, stating, "I'll have more to share soon, but I believe in OpenAI more than ever and am excited to help you all advance the mission from a different vantage point."
Lightcap's departure is part of a series of executive changes at OpenAI as the company prepares for a potential IPO. Other recent departures include Fidji Simo, who led AGI development, and executives from less central areas such as Bill Peebles and Kevin Weil.