Fidji Simo, the current CEO of Instacart, is set to transition to OpenAI as the head of applications, a move that reflects the growing ambitions of both companies. Announced on May 8, 2025, by OpenAI's CEO and co-founder Sam Altman, this appointment is expected to grant Altman more freedom to focus on other key areas of the organization.
Simo, who has a rich background in technology, previously spent about a decade at Meta (formerly Facebook), where she played a crucial role in the development of the platform's application and video strategy. Her transition to OpenAI comes at a pivotal time, as the company seeks to enhance its product offerings, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence.
In her new role, Simo will serve as the CEO of Applications and will report directly to Altman. While specific details about her responsibilities remain sparse, Altman emphasized that Simo will be instrumental in evolving traditional functions of the company as OpenAI enters a new phase of growth. This includes overseeing developments related to ChatGPT and other AI-driven applications.
OpenAI's decision to retain its non-profit status, announced just days before Simo's appointment, signals a commitment to its foundational mission while navigating the competitive landscape of AI technology. Altman noted that Simo's expertise would allow him to dedicate more time to research, IT, and security systems within the company.
As Simo prepares for her new role, Instacart is actively searching for her successor. She has been a key figure at Instacart since taking the helm in July 2021, where she successfully led the company to profitability and orchestrated its initial public offering (IPO) on the Nasdaq in September 2023. Her leadership has been marked by significant growth and innovation, including the launch of the Caper Carts in stores and the Fizz app in 2024.
Born in Sète, France, in 1985, Simo's journey to Silicon Valley began with her studies at HEC Paris and an exchange program at UCLA. She started her career at eBay before joining Facebook in 2011, where she quickly ascended to leadership roles, including overseeing the main application and launching Facebook Live.
At just 39, Simo has established herself as a formidable force in tech, balancing her professional achievements with personal commitments, including her role as a mother and co-founder of Metrodora, a medical center dedicated to neuro-immune disorders.
In her new position at OpenAI, Simo will lead the newly formed Applications division, tasked with managing product development, business strategy, and operational functions. This division is expected to play a critical role in the strategic direction of OpenAI, particularly as the company seeks to industrialize its products and expand their adoption.
OpenAI's recent efforts to expand its global reach include offering assistance to countries interested in developing their AI infrastructures, a move aimed at countering the influence of Chinese tech giants. Valued at $300 billion, OpenAI is positioning itself as a key player in the AI landscape, with Simo at the forefront of its application strategy.
As she embarks on this new chapter, Simo's appointment is seen as a strategic win for OpenAI, aligning with Altman's vision to bridge technological innovation with real-world applications. The company is poised for a transformative period, and with Simo's leadership, the future of OpenAI looks promising.
Fidji Simo's transition to OpenAI marks a significant moment not only for her career but also for the evolution of AI applications. As she steps into her new role, the tech world watches closely, anticipating how her leadership will shape the future of AI.
