BP Chairman Dismissed After Just Eight Months in Role

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - British oil giant BP has removed Chairman Albert Manifold from his position, just under a year after he assumed the role.

The dismissal came amid serious concerns over corporate governance and Manifold’s leadership behaviour.

BP announced the decision on Tuesday (26 May 2026) local time, with the sudden change marking the latest upheaval in the oil major’s leadership ranks.

According to four sources familiar with the matter, Manifold was often aggressive towards colleagues within the company.

“Albert has helped focus and accelerate BP’s transformation. However, the board was shocked and disappointed to learn of governance and behaviour issues deemed unacceptable, hence our decisive action,” said Senior Independent Director Amanda Blanc of BP, quoted by Reuters on Friday (29 May 2026).

BP stated that the board unanimously decided Manifold would no longer serve as chairman or director of the company immediately.

“This decision follows serious concerns raised to the board regarding key governance standards, oversight, and behaviour,” BP said in a statement.

“I was dismissed without warning or explanation,” Manifold said.

“I completely deny the characterisation of my behaviour and will not allow a false narrative to stand,” he added.

Manifold’s dismissal occurred less than eight months after he officially became BP chairman in October 2025.

He was recruited to help overhaul the company’s strategy amid share price pressures and speculation of a potential takeover bid.