OpenAI Appoints Former Uber Executive Jill Hazelbaker as Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

OpenAI has hired yet another high-profile executive into its leadership team, this time from Uber. The company has appointed Jill Hazelbaker as its Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, putting her in charge of global communications and corporate positioning. The move comes as OpenAI faces growing scrutiny over AI’s impact, responsibilities, and future.

OpenAI brings Uber’s former communications chief on board

Hazelbaker will work closely with OpenAI’s leadership to improve public understanding of artificial intelligence and strengthen trust in the company’s mission. She brings nearly two decades of experience working with major technology companies and political leaders.

Her most recent position was President and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Uber. During her decade at the company, she helped oversee communications, marketing, public policy, safety, and people teams. Interestingly, her experience extends well beyond Uber. Hazelbaker previously led communications and public policy at Snap. She also held several senior positions at Google, including overseeing global corporate communications and government relations across Europe.

OpenAI wants to strengthen public trust as AI expands

OpenAI President Greg Brockman welcomed the appointment, highlighting the growing importance of communication and public trust as AI becomes part of everyday life. Brockman said Hazelbaker brings seasoned leadership and an understanding of the challenges involved in building technology at global scale. Hazelbaker also described AI as the most profound technological shift of her lifetime.

She said she was excited to work alongside Sam Altman, Greg Brockman, and the wider OpenAI team. Her immediate focus will involve helping the company communicate its work and engage with people and institutions shaping AI’s future. Before entering the technology industry, Hazelbaker worked in American politics. She served as communications director for John McCain’s 2008 presidential campaign and as press secretary to former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.