Albert Manifold, the recently ousted chair of BP, has challenged the company’s explanation for his abrupt dismissal, stating he was “removed without warning and without explanation” while refuting allegations of unprofessional behavior. This development adds fresh instability to the energy giant’s leadership, coming after just eight months in the role.
In a written statement, Manifold vigorously contested characterizations of his conduct, declaring: “I dispute entirely the characterization of my conduct and I will not allow a false narrative to go unchallenged.” The FTSE 100 company terminated his position on Tuesday citing “serious concerns” about his governance standards, oversight, and professional behavior.
Reports indicate Manifold’s interactions with colleagues were perceived as aggressive, with Reuters noting the board acted based on a whistleblower report documenting a pattern of unacceptable behavior. The Financial Times additionally alleged that senior executives felt belittled by Manifold, who reportedly attempted to exert executive-like authority rather than maintaining a non-executive chair’s role.
Appointed in October 2025 after leading Ireland’s CRH construction firm, Manifold inherited BP’s strategic pivot back toward fossil fuel extraction following the abrupt exit of former chair Helge Lund under investor pressure. His tenure quickly saw him replace CEO Murray Auchincloss and install Meg O’Neill, a former ExxonMobil executive, who officially took the helm in April as the company’s fifth CEO since 2020.
Manifold’s defense highlighted his efforts to “drive genuine change at BP – cutting costs, challenging excess, and holding the organisation to higher standards,” noting that the board previously acknowledged his “focus and pace.” Despite his removal, BP affirmed it will continue its existing strategic direction while searching for its third chair in two years, appointing Ian Tyler, former CEO of Balfour Beatty, as interim leader.
The leadership upheaval triggered market concerns, with BP shares falling an additional 4% on Wednesday morning following Tuesday’s 4% post-announcement drop. Financial commentator Rich McDonald of IG Group called the dismissal “another leadership shock at one of Britain’s most important companies,” questioning whether the firm is becoming “increasingly ungovernable.”