WSJ Tech News Briefing · Tuesday, August 11, 2026

OpenAI's Brad Lightcap to depart, joins growing list of exits

Brad Lightcap, a key figure at OpenAI who joined in 2018 and previously served as CEO, is stepping down from his role overseeing special projects. Lightcap announced his departure to staff, stating he intends to 'start something new'.

personBrad LightcapcompanyOpenAI

The tape

3 quotes

“Lightcap joined the company in 2018 and served as CEO for several years before changing over to a role overseeing special projects in the spring.”

Julie Chang

“He announced his exit to staff in a note, stating he's leaving to quote, start something new.”

Julie Chang

“Lightcap's exit is the latest high-profile departure from OpenAI.”

Julie Chang

Heard on WSJ Tech News Briefing — “TNB Tech Minute: Flight-Tracking Platform Sues Kalshi Over Flight Cancellation Bets”, published Tuesday, August 11, 2026. Heardvine summarizes and quotes with attribution and timestamps, and links to the original everywhere.

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