OpenAI Plans to Nearly Double Workforce to 8,000 by End of 2026, Hiring 12 People Per Day

OpenAI plans to expand from ~4,500 to 8,000 employees by end of 2026, hiring an average of 12 people per day with focus on product development, engineering, research, sales, and a new 'technical ambassadorship' role for enterprise customers. The expansion counters broader tech industry layoffs and reflects intensifying competition with Anthropic, which has captured 70% of new enterprise AI deals. OpenAI is expanding its San Francisco office footprint while preparing its planned conversion from nonprofit to for-profit corporate structure.