Indian-origin Aaron Chatterji becomes OpenAI's 1st Chief Economist

Chatterji’s academic background and expertise in business strategy, innovation, and public policy will play a critical role in providing OpenAI with insights into the macroeconomic challenges and opportunities that arise as AI continues to evolve. 

Aaron 'Ronnie' Chatterji joins OpenAI as its first Chief Economist, carrying a wealth of experience from both academia and government. His appointment marks a significant step in understanding AI's economic impact globally.

He is a prominent economist and professor at Duke University, brings a wealth of experience to OpenAI as the organization seeks to deepen its understanding of AI's economic implications and drive responsible development in the field. His role will focus on understanding the broader economic implications of AI, particularly how AI infrastructure can reshape economies and influence labour market trends over time. 

His appointment highlights the growing importance of economic perspectives in the tech industry, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence, where the potential for widespread disruption and societal impact is immense. This move aligns with OpenAI's mission to create safe and broadly beneficial AI systems, while also addressing concerns about economic displacement, job automation, and the ethical deployment of AI technologies.

As Chief Economist, he will focus on understanding how AI technologies will influence global economies, job markets, and industrial sectors. He will also contribute to shaping OpenAI's policies on AI governance, helping ensure that the benefits of AI are distributed equitably across societies. His work at Duke University, where he has published extensively on topics related to entrepreneurship and economic policy, positions him well to guide OpenAI in navigating the complex intersection of technology, economics, and regulation.