Albert Manifold, the recently ousted chairman of BP, has vehemently denied allegations about his conduct, describing them as “lies” and “nonsense”. In a detailed statement, Manifold insisted that no one had ever raised any issue with him regarding his behaviour during his tenure.
BP announced Manifold’s departure with immediate effect on Tuesday, citing serious concerns about his governance standards, oversight, and conduct. Media reports, citing anonymous sources, described his behaviour as aggressive. Manifold challenged these reports, stating: “What I do not accept is that lies can be told about me, nor that anyone should be allowed to hide behind anonymity when commenting on my time at BP.”
Manifold, who was appointed chair in October 2025 after a decade as CEO of CRH, acknowledged he may have “pushed hard and challenged people directly” in his drive for change. However, he disputed the characterisation of his conduct, saying there is a “considerable distance” between driving urgency and the allegations made against him.
He also rejected claims that he sought to exert control like an executive chair, noting he had “many other commitments” and had spent only 13 days in BP’s London office this year. Manifold highlighted that he turned down perks such as chauffeur-driven cars and private jets, making his own coffee and buying lunch from local cafes to “set an example” during cost-cutting measures.
BP responded by standing by its earlier statement, adding: “We have a duty of care to all our employees, particularly those impacted by his behaviour.” Interim chair Ian Tyler, former CEO of Balfour Beatty, has been appointed while a permanent replacement is sought.
