Summary
Andrew Tulloch, co-founder of AI startup Thinking Machines Lab, has announced his departure to join Meta. This move follows Meta’s recent efforts to recruit top AI talent, including a high-profile offer to Tulloch. Tulloch brings experience from both OpenAI and Facebook’s AI Research Group.
Andrew Tulloch’s Move to Meta
Thinking Machines Lab, an AI startup led by former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati, recently saw one of its co-founders, Andrew Tulloch, leave to join Meta. Tulloch informed employees of his decision in a message on Friday. A spokesperson for Thinking Machines Lab confirmed his departure, stating he “has decided to pursue a different path for personal reasons.”
Background on Thinking Machines Lab and Recruitment Efforts
In August, The Wall Street Journal reported that Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg had launched an aggressive AI recruiting campaign, which included an offer to acquire Thinking Machines Lab. When the acquisition did not materialize, Zuckerberg reportedly extended a lucrative compensation package to Tulloch, potentially worth up to $1.5 billion over six years. Meta later described the WSJ’s portrayal of the offer as “inaccurate and ridiculous.”
Tulloch’s Career Journey
Andrew Tulloch has a notable background in AI research, having previously worked at OpenAI and Facebook’s AI Research Group before co-founding Thinking Machines Lab. His move to Meta marks the latest step in his career within the AI industry.