Chaya Nayak quits Meta to join OpenAI’s special initiatives team

Chaya Nayak has stepped down as Meta’s director of product management for generative artificial intelligence (AI) after nearly nine years to join OpenAI’s special initiatives team, where she will work closely with Irina Kofman.

In a LinkedIn post, Nayak described the move as the “perfect next chapter,” highlighting her excitement about shaping the future of AI at the frontier of technology and society.



Nayak began her career at Meta leading the Data for Good program, which showcased how data science could be applied for social impact. She went on to head the Facebook Open Research and Transparency (FORT) team, pioneering data-sharing frameworks like clean rooms and differential privacy. Her work enabled independent research on Meta’s role in democracy, with findings published in journals such as Science.

Over the past two and a half years, Nayak spearheaded Meta’s Generative AI efforts, including three iterations of its flagship Llama models and the launch of Meta AI, helping the company compete in the fast-evolving AI landscape.

Nayak’s exit is part of a wider trend of high-profile departures from Meta’s recently formed Superintelligence Lab, as several researchers and executives move to OpenAI or other ventures. Industry observers say the shift underscores OpenAI’s strong pull in attracting senior talent while raising questions about Meta’s ability to retain its AI leaders.

At OpenAI, Nayak will collaborate with Kofman on Special Initiatives—a division that explores experimental and strategic opportunities for AI beyond the company’s core products. Her expertise in transparency, generative AI, and responsible data use is expected to play a key role in advancing OpenAI’s long-term mission.