BP ousts Chair Albert Manifold in surprise move, citing unnamed governance issues
BP Board's Decision and Leadership Changes
By Shadia Nasralla
May 26 (Reuters) - BP has removed Chair Albert Manifold with immediate effect, it said on Tuesday, citing governance oversight and conduct issues, only months after his appointment to help oversee a strategy revamp.
Background on BP's Strategic Shift
BP, which launched a plan in February 2025 to shift the focus back to fossil fuel and away from renewable energy, also appointed Meg O'Neill as its fifth CEO in six years at the end of last year.
Details of the Board's Announcement
In a statement on Tuesday, BP said its board had unanimously decided that Albert Manifold should no longer serve as chair and director with immediate effect.
Concerns Leading to the Ousting
"This follows serious concerns raised to the board related to important governance standards, oversight and conduct," BP said.
Comments from Senior Independent Director Amanda Blanc
"Albert has helped bring a welcome focus and pace to BP's transformation. However, the board has been surprised and disappointed to learn of governance oversight and conduct issues it deems unacceptable and has taken decisive action," said senior independent Director Amanda Blanc. Blanc oversaw Manifold's appointment in October.
BP's Response to Further Inquiries
A BP spokesperson declined to give further details.
(Additional reporting by Raechel Thankam Job in Bengaluru; Editing by Anil D'Silva and Barbara Lewis)