BP removes Albert Manifold as chairman after about eight months in the role, with the company citing “serious concerns” relating to governance standards, oversight, and conduct. Multiple outlets report that the board acts with immediate effect and that BP provides an account focused on standards and oversight rather than specific allegations made public in detail.
Manifold rejects the company’s characterization of his conduct. In statements carried by several outlets, he says he was “removed without warning and without explanation,” and he describes the narrative about his behavior as inaccurate or false. He also says he intends to challenge BP’s version of events. The New York Times reports that in his response he acknowledges he “pushed hard” but says he never crossed a line.
At the same time, BP’s position, as described across the reports, centers on the board’s concerns about governance and oversight during his tenure. The dispute highlights an ongoing disagreement between BP and its former chairman over the reasons for his dismissal and the interpretation of his actions while in office.
