OpenAI halts operations for a week amid burnout and Meta talent poaching

OpenAI has announced an unusual decision to shut down company operations for an entire week in early July, citing intense employee burnout as the main cause. Reports indicate that many staff members have been logging 80-hour workweeks, prompting leadership to enforce the break to safeguard employees’ wellbeing. However, the timing has raised eyebrows, with some industry watchers suggesting the pause is also a strategic move amid a heated talent battle with Meta.

Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta has been aggressively trying to lure OpenAI researchers, reportedly offering signing bonuses as high as $100 million. So far, Meta is believed to have poached around seven or eight scientists from OpenAI.

In an internal memo, OpenAI’s Chief Research Officer, Mark Chen, described the wave of departures as feeling “like someone has broken into our home and stolen something.” He also cautioned employees that Meta would likely ramp up its recruitment push during the break, urging them not to make impulsive decisions alone.

To counter this, OpenAI’s leadership—including Chen and CEO Sam Altman—have promised stronger retention measures. These include reviewing salaries, enhancing benefits, and exploring new ways to reward and recognise staff.

The company is also directly contacting employees who have received external offers, reiterating OpenAI’s mission and values. Senior research managers have sent supportive notes encouraging staff to be wary of “unrealistic, time-pressured offers” and to stay in close contact with leadership before making any moves.

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