In a recent OpenAI Forum discussion, Sarah Fryer, OpenAI’s CFO, and Jagdeep Singh Bakker, University of California’s CIO, explored the transformative impact of AI on the finance industry. Sarah shared her unconventional career journey from engineering in Northern Ireland to finance leadership roles at major companies like Goldman Sachs, Salesforce, Square, and now OpenAI. She emphasized the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and kindness as key traits for navigating the evolving career landscape shaped by AI advancements.
Sarah highlighted how AI is revolutionizing finance operations at OpenAI, starting with small-scale experiments like hackathons to encourage adoption among her team. A notable example was the creation of a custom GPT tool for investor relations, which streamlined answering investor questions and even facilitated real-time translation during international meetings. This AI integration has enabled OpenAI’s finance team to operate more efficiently and with greater precision, such as automating tax form preparation and enhancing audit processes by analyzing entire datasets instead of samples.
The conversation also touched on the human element in finance, particularly in fundraising. Despite AI’s growing role, Sarah stressed that trust, integrity, and personal relationships remain central to successful fundraising efforts. She underscored the value of kindness and long-term relationship-building, noting that these human qualities are irreplaceable and critical for sustained success in finance and beyond.
Regarding education and workforce development, Sarah encouraged universities and students to embrace AI proactively. She advocated for integrating AI into curricula and admissions processes, viewing AI as a tool to enhance learning rather than a threat. Sarah also pointed out that AI is expanding opportunities, enabling more people to develop skills like coding, and urged educational institutions to foster cross-disciplinary programs that prepare students for an AI-native future.
Finally, the forum concluded with reflections on the partnership between OpenAI and the University of California, highlighting the mutual benefits of collaboration in advancing AI education and innovation. Sarah’s leadership and genuine approach were praised, and the event set the stage for ongoing conversations about AI’s role in finance and other sectors, with upcoming forums planned to explore enterprise AI adoption and AI in sports and entertainment.
