Former BP chairman Albert Manifold was dismissed after eight months over unspecified “serious concerns” regarding governance, oversight and conduct, with insiders citing aggressive behavior and mishandling sensitive information. Manifold disputes these allegations, plans legal challenge, and his firing consolidates CEO Meg O’Neill’s authority as she enacts strategic restructuring.
BP dismissed Albert Manifold after eight months as chairman, citing serious concerns over governance, oversight and conduct. The board’s statement provided no further detail, though insiders flagged complaints of aggressive behavior toward employees and mishandling of sensitive information.
Manifold asserts he was removed without warning or explanation and disputes the board’s characterization of his conduct. He intends to legally challenge the dismissal to prevent what he calls a false narrative from taking hold.
The removal consolidates the authority of CEO Meg O’Neill, who began restructuring within weeks of her appointment last month. Manifold’s exit raises fresh questions about the board’s decision-making during BP’s strategic turnaround efforts.
