When BP's board of directors appointed Albert Manifold as chairman in October 2025, the calculation was clear: a man who had spent ten years leading Irish construction giant CRH through aggressive international expansion was to appease activist investor Elliott Management and steer the company away from green transformation back toward oil and gas. Less than eight months later — on May 26, the board unanimously fired him.
What Happened Inside
According to Financial Times, following Manifold's appointment, complaints began pouring in from whistleblowers. They described systematic aggressive behavior and accusations of improper handling of sensitive information. The board stated it was "surprised and disappointed" by what it discovered.
"The company thought they were hiring a tough change agent. They didn't think they were hiring someone who intimidates others."
Financial Times source familiar with BP's situation
The same source clarified: the word "shouter" is an understatement. Manifold disputes the board's characterization and, according to reports, intends to challenge the decision, insisting the reason is strategic disagreements rather than behavior.
Warning Signs Came Before the Dismissal
Manifold did not arrive in a vacuum of trust. At the annual shareholder meeting, he received support from only 81.8% of votes — in British corporate practice, a result below 90% is considered a serious warning, below 80% is almost a formal rebuke. He was already on thin ice. At the same time, he reportedly attempted to limit the powers of new CEO Meg O'Neill, whom the board appointed following Murray Auchincloss's resignation in December 2025.
Market and Consequences
Following the announcement of his dismissal, BP shares on the London Stock Exchange fell by 10%. Ian Tyler was appointed interim board chairman. The strategic pivot toward hydrocarbons that Manifold was supposed to accelerate continues formally — but now without its architect.
A Question of Selection, Not Just Behavior
This situation raises doubts not only about Manifold personally. CRH under his leadership was known for strict discipline — particularly aggressive acquisitions in new markets, including controversial attempts at consolidating the cement industry in Ukraine. The same traits considered advantages in a construction conglomerate proved incompatible with the collegial management model accepted at major public energy companies.
- Manifold became BP chairman in October 2025 — replacing Helge Lund.
- 81.8% support at AGM — a troubling signal that went unheeded.
- Dismissal on May 26, 2026 — the board acted unanimously.
- Shares fell by 10% immediately after the announcement.
- Manifold denies bullying accusations and plans to appeal the decision.
If BP's board truly failed to anticipate the incompatibility of Manifold's management style with the company's corporate culture — a practical question arises: will the company change its vetting procedures for senior positions, or will it simply replace one person?
