OpenAI has appointed Aaron Ronnie Chatterji, an Indian-origin business and public policy professor, as its first-ever Chief Economist. Chatterji, who teaches at Duke University, has an impressive background, combining academic and government experience. He previously served as Chief Economist at the U.S. Commerce Department during President Joe Biden’s administration. Additionally, he was a Senior Economist on President Barack Obama’s Council of Economic Advisers, contributing to policy discussions on economic growth, innovation, and labor markets.
In his new role at OpenAI, Chatterji will focus on researching the economic impacts of artificial intelligence. His work will include studying how AI is reshaping employment, productivity, and broader economic trends, as well as guiding policy discussions on how to manage the technological transformation. His appointment reflects OpenAI’s commitment to understanding and addressing the broader implications of AI on global economies.