The announcement follows news that negotiations at government level between the UK and US over a technology agreement that includes expanded cooperation in the field of AI have stalled.
Chris Lehane, OpenAI's chief international affairs officer, said Osborne's decision to join reflects “a shared belief that AI is becoming critical infrastructure and that early decisions about how to build, manage and deploy AI will shape economics and geopolitics for years to come.”
OpenAI for Countries is designed to work with governments to “ensure that global AI systems are built on democratic values,” Lehane wrote on LinkedIn. To date, the program has worked with more than 50 countries.
He said Osborne will work with governments to help develop AI infrastructure, build AI literacy and use AI to improve public services.
“In his new role, George will help expand existing partnerships and build new ones,” Lehane added.
Osborne, who co-hosts the podcast and is also director of the British Museum, said he joined OpenAI after conversations with CEO Sam Altman and chief operating officer Brad Lightcap.
He said they are “extraordinary leaders who are deeply committed to their mission to ensure that the power of artificial intelligence is developed responsibly and its benefits are felt by all.”
Osborne added: “That's what the OpenAI for Countries initiative aims to achieve: helping societies around the world share in the opportunities this powerful technology brings.”
Mr. Osborne said he was resigning from his current position at investment bank Evercore, which he said was a “huge issue.”
He was also the editor of the Evening Standard from 2017 to 2020.
Mr Osborne's new job was first reported by the Financial Times.
