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## Overview BP has removed chair Albert Manifold following claims of bullying, with several colleagues reportedly describing his hands-on approach as aggressive (FT, May 27). The removal caps a period of significant governance turbulence at the UK oil major. ## Key Facts - Albert Manifold has been removed as BP chair (FT, May 27) - The stated reason involves bullying claims, with colleagues reportedly describing his approach as aggressive (FT, May 27) - Manifold had a reputation for a notably hands-on leadership style (FT, May 27) ## Governance Context BP has been navigating a complex strategic environment including: the Iran war's impact on oil markets, activist investor pressure over energy transition strategy, CEO Murray Auchincleck's leadership trajectory, and the company's positioning between fossil fuel expansion and net-zero commitments. A chairman removal on conduct grounds adds board-level instability to these strategic pressures. ## Precedent & Implications - UK corporate governance codes place significant responsibility on chairs for board culture - The FRC and institutional investors (including major UK pension funds) will scrutinize succession - Interim chair appointment and permanent succession search will be closely watched - Potential impact on BP's activist investor dynamics and strategic direction - D&O insurance and potential employment claims by Manifold are plausible follow-on issues ## Successor Considerations No successor has been publicly named as of reporting. BP's board composition and the Iran war's commercial backdrop make this a high-profile succession with strategic energy sector implications.