Kate Rouch, OpenAI’s head of marketing, has announced she will take a three-month break from her role while undergoing treatment for invasive breast cancer.
Rouch disclosed her diagnosis publicly in a LinkedIn post, revealing that she was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer shortly after joining OpenAI, stepping into a position she described as her “dream job.” She explained that for the last five months, she has been undergoing chemotherapy at UCSF, managing her medical treatment alongside her professional duties. Rouch described the period as the most challenging phase of her life for herself, her husband, and their two young children.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Rouch provided a reassuring update about her prognosis, stating that her doctors expect her to make a full and complete recovery.
During her temporary absence, OpenAI has appointed Gary Briggs, former Chief Marketing Officer at Meta, to serve as interim head of marketing. Briggs and Rouch previously worked together at Meta.
In sharing her experience publicly, Rouch highlighted a critical message for women regarding the importance of regular medical check-ups. She noted that invasive breast cancer affects one in eight women in the United States each year, resulting in over 42,000 deaths annually. Her statement drew attention to recent increases in breast cancer diagnoses among younger women. Emphasizing the life-saving potential of preventive medical screenings, Rouch urged women to prioritize their health care despite pressures from careers and family obligations.
Kate Rouch joined OpenAI in December after serving as the Chief Marketing Officer at Coinbase. Prior to Coinbase, she held senior marketing positions at multiple major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger.
