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Tue, 26 May 2026

Tue, 26 May 2026 'Bullying' and 'overbearing' behaviour behind abrupt BP chairman removal

BP declined to comment on whether bullying behaviour was part of the reason for his immediate dismissal.

* BP has removed its chairman Albert Manifold with immediate effect due to "serious concerns" including "bullying" and "overbearing" behavior.
* Manifold was appointed chair just under a year ago, having joined the company as a non-executive director in September 2025.
* The decision was made by the board after a unanimous vote, with senior independent director Amanda Blanc stating that governance oversight and conduct issues were deemed unacceptable.
* Manifold disputes the characterization of his behavior and claims he was removed without warning or explanation.
* Shares tumbled by about 5% following the news of his removal.
* Senior independent director Ian Tyler has been appointed interim chair with immediate effect.
* The company will begin the search for a permanent chairman.
* BP's CEO Meg O'Neill has said that the company's strategic direction remains unchanged.