In a decisive move reflective of his commitment to reform and supporting businesses, San Francisco Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie has unveiled his transition team, a roster of diverse leaders tasked with shaping the future governance of the city. Sam Altman, the head of OpenAI, is among the significant profiles to join this team of advisors. OpenAI's leadership under Altman's helm, particularly in the nexus of artificial intelligence, could signal a business-centric approach to Lurie’s administration. Altman has been a long-time supporter of San Francisco, and his OpenAI has continued to buck the trend in Downtown SF office space, even pushing for return to office and signing several of the largest office post-COVID lease deals.
According to a video message posted by Lurie, the transition co-chairs include retired leaders like Joanne Hayes-White, San Francisco's first female fire chief, and Paul Yep, a former police commander. Their insights, coupled with that of former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs, now an advisor to the California governor, suggest an administration deeply invested in public safety and community engagement. "This is a group of individuals that admitted to accountability to service and to change here in San Francisco," Lurie stated in his address.
I’m thrilled to introduce the co-chairs who will guide our transition and lay the foundation for change in San Francisco.
— Daniel Lurie 丹尼爾·羅偉 (@DanielLurie) November 18, 2024
• Sam Altman: CEO of OpenAI
• Joanne Hayes-White: San Francisco Fire Chief (Ret.)
• José Quiñonez: CEO of Mission Asset Fund
•… pic.twitter.com/If5kjHBxRb
Lurie's team doesn't shy away from influential figures in the financial sector either; Ned Segal, who previously served as CFO of Twitter, brings a wealth of private sector experience. José Quiñonez, the founding CEO of Mission Asset Fund, recognized with a MacArthur Fellowship, is expected to channel his financial inclusion expertise towards marginalized communities, as The SF Standard reports. Nancy Tung and Paul Yep, adding to the diversity quotient, both figure prominently in the transition team, aligning with Lurie's widespread Asian American electoral support.
The composition of the team signals a broader intent to bridge public service and technological innovation within the city's administration. The SF Chronicle cites Lurie's ambition for the team to help establish "actionable 100-day plans with accountability metrics," spelling a future where efficacy and innovation are inextricably linked. "Every one of these incredible leaders brings a track record of shaking up the status quo to deliver results," Lurie said in the news release.
Lurie's allies are poised to address some of the city's most pressing issues, from the housing crisis to streamlining bureaucratic processes. With Sara Fenske Bahat, foraying into her role as a transition director, Lurie's administration may draw upon her varied experiences in government and the arts to rebuild trust in city hall. According to Lurie's post, the co-chairs are united by "a commitment to accountability, service, and change," anticipating a tenure of results-driven leadership. Lurie, who ousted incumbent London Breed, appears to be balancing the array of San Francisco’s interests through these strategic appointments, shaping expectations for a dynamic tenure ahead.