OpenAI appoints Aaron Ronnie Chatterji as first chief economist, an Indian-American

OpenAI has appointed Aaron “Ronnie” Chatterji, a business and public policy professor from Duke University, as its first-ever Chief Economist. This move comes as the company aims to explore the economic implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on global markets, job creation, and growth across industries. Chatterji brings vast experience from both academia and government, having served under the Obama and Biden administrations.
Chatterji’s role will involve leading research into how AI is reshaping the economy, particularly focusing on its impact on employment and long-term productivity. With his experience, he is expected to guide both businesses and policymakers in navigating the opportunities and challenges posed by AI technology.
Prior to joining OpenAI, Chatterji played a key role in the Biden administration as the CHIPS coordinator, managing the $52 billion CHIPS and Science Act. His background includes serving as Chief Economist for the US Department of Commerce and contributing to economic strategy on President Obama’s Council of Economic Advisers. Given his strong expertise in innovation and economic development, his appointment is seen as critical to OpenAI’s ambitions.
OpenAI’s hiring of Chatterji comes at a time when the company is ramping up efforts to understand how AI can drive sustainable growth across multiple sectors. As AI continues to evolve, concerns about its effect on jobs and industry shifts are growing. A study co-authored by OpenAI suggested that up to 80 per cent of U.S. workers might see AI affect at least 10 per cent of their job tasks, and a significant portion could face more disruptive impacts. Chatterji’s work will be essential in addressing these issues and helping businesses adapt.
In addition to Chatterji, OpenAI has made other prominent appointments recently, including Chris Lehane, a former White House lawyer, as Vice President of Global Affairs, and Paul Nakasone, a retired four-star US Army general, to boost its leadership team.