George Osborne Joins OpenAI to Lead AI for Countries Initiative
George Osborne becomes OpenAI's London-based managing director for the OpenAI for Countries program, helping governments grow AI capacity and governance while improving public services.
Former British chancellor George Osborne is moving into the tech world by joining OpenAI. He will lead the OpenAI for Countries program from London, helping governments build AI capacity and governance. The appointment signals a new push to shape AI use at the national level.
What Osborne will do
Osborne will lead OpenAI for Countries, a program that partners with governments to ensure AI systems reflect democratic values and public interest. OpenAI's global affairs chief, Chris Lehane, described the move as recognition that AI acts as critical infrastructure and that early governance decisions will influence economics and geopolitics for years ahead.
To date, the initiative has engaged with more than 50 countries. In his new role, Osborne will help governments build AI infrastructure, raise digital literacy, and apply AI to public services such as health, transport, and government administration. He will also work to expand existing partnerships and create new collaborations.
Background on Osborne
Osborne leaves his post at investment bank Evercore and has previously served as editor of the Evening Standard from 2017 to 2020. He said he joined OpenAI after discussions with chief executive Sam Altman and chief operating officer Brad Lightcap, praising their leadership and commitment to responsible AI that benefits all sectors of society.
The timing comes as talks between the UK and the United States over a broader tech deal face delays. The plan, announced in September, included about £31 billion in anticipated spending from major tech firms such as Nvidia and Google.
Analysts point to a surge in AI investment, paired with concerns about a possible market bubble. The Bank of England has warned of a potential sharp correction in tech valuations as AI spending grows, often financed by significant debt.
Expert comment
Industry experts say Osborne's appointment highlights the push for closer government collaboration with AI leaders. His policy and public affairs background could help translate powerful AI advances into real public benefits, they say.
Short summary
Osborne's move underscores OpenAI's effort to align AI growth with public interests. It follows ongoing UK-US negotiations on a major tech deal and signals confidence in expanding government AI capacity. The coming months will test how private AI innovation and public policy can work together to deliver visible public benefits.
Key insight: Governments are increasingly partnering with leading AI firms to shape the responsible use and governance of powerful technology. BBC News
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