BP Ousted Chair Manifold Denies Allegations as ‘Lies’

The Story

BP’s ousted chair, Albert Manifold, issued a statement disputing allegations about his conduct as “lies” and “nonsense.” BP had announced his departure on Tuesday, citing serious concerns over governance, oversight, and conduct. Manifold challenged media reports that described his behavior as aggressive and denied wanting to exert control like an executive chair.

Key Facts

• Albert Manifold was appointed BP chair in October 2025 and left with immediate effect on Tuesday May 26, 2026, after less than a year.
• BP’s statement expressed serious concerns about his governance standards, oversight, and conduct.
• Manifold said: “At no point in my tenure as chairman of BP has anyone raised with me any issue about my conduct or my relationship with my colleagues.”
• He described reports that he wanted to exert control like an executive chair as “nonsense,” noting he had many other commitments and spent only 13 days in BP’s London office this year.
• Media reports, citing anonymous sources, described his behavior as aggressive.
• Manifold conceded he may have “pushed hard and challenged people directly” amid his determination to drive change.
• He said he declined perks such as a chauffeur, private jet, and corporate hospitality to set an example amid cost-cutting.
• BP said it stands by its statement and has a duty of care to employees impacted by his behavior.
• Ian Tyler (former Balfour Beatty CEO) has been appointed interim chair.

Conflicting Reports

The article presents conflicting accounts: Manifold denies the allegations as lies and says no one raised concerns with him, while BP and anonymous sources described his conduct as aggressive and a governance concern.

Still Unclear

It is not specified what specific incidents or behaviors led to BP’s concerns, nor whether any formal complaints were filed before his ouster.

Misconceptions

The article addresses the misconception that Manifold wanted to act as an executive chair—he directly denies that. He also rejects the characterization of his conduct as aggressive, saying his direct style should not be equated with misconduct.

Key Figures

• Albert Manifold: Ousted chair of BP
• Meg O’Neill: BP chief executive
• Ian Tyler: Interim chair of BP, former Balfour Beatty CEO

Sources: The Guardian