Albert Manifold joined the BP board as non-executive director on 1 September 2025 and took over as chair on 1 October 2025, succeeding Helge Lund.
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British oil and gas giant BP has abruptly removed chair Albert Manifold with immediate effect, just months into the position, after the board identified what it described as unacceptable governance oversight and conduct issues.
The oil major announced on Tuesday that its board had unanimously decided that Manifold should no longer serve as chair and director following “serious concerns” relating to governance standards, oversight and conduct.
The company did not provide further details regarding the specific allegations or incidents behind the decision.
Manifold joined the company’s board as non-executive director on 1 September 2025 and took over as chair on 1 October 2025, succeeding Helge Lund. He was the CWO of CRH plc from January 2014 until December 2024.
Amanda Blanc, BP’s senior independent director, said the board had acted decisively after becoming aware of the concerns.
“Albert has helped bring a welcome focus and pace to bp’s transformation,” Blanc said.
“However, the board has been surprised and disappointed to learn of governance oversight and conduct issues it deems unacceptable and has taken decisive action.”
The board has appointed Ian Tyler as interim chair with immediate effect while the company begins a formal search process for a permanent replacement.
Tyler moved quickly to reassure investors and markets that the company’s strategic direction remained unchanged despite the leadership upheaval.
“The Board and leadership team have deep conviction in the strategic direction we have laid out, and the company is moving at pace to deliver it,” Tyler said.
He added that BP remained focused on strengthening operational performance, maintaining financial discipline and improving shareholder returns.
Tyler also strongly endorsed Meg O’Neill, who recently took over as CEO of the energy giant.
“The Board has been very impressed with Meg O’Neill since she joined as CEO,” Tyler said.
“She has extensive industry and operational experience and real clarity about the direction and opportunity for the business.”
He said O’Neill had already taken “bold action” to simplify the company, including restructuring BP into a more clearly defined upstream and downstream operating model.
The sudden departure of Manifold comes at a critical time for BP as the company continues navigating a complex global energy landscape marked by volatile oil prices, geopolitical tensions and pressure from investors to improve profitability while balancing energy transition goals.
BP has in recent years accelerated efforts to streamline operations and sharpen capital discipline following criticism from some shareholders over returns and strategic execution.
The board said a succession process for a permanent chair would begin immediately.
BUSINESS REPORT