BP has made permanent the appointment of Ian Tyler as chair, concluding a months-long search to fill the position after the abrupt departure of Albert Manifold. Tyler, who has served as interim chair since his appointment to the board in April 2025, will assume the role on a full-time basis immediately.
Manifold’s tenure lasted only eight months before his removal in late May, with the company citing “serious concerns” regarding governance and conduct matters. Reports indicated that senior employees had experienced difficult interactions with Manifold, who faced allegations of aggressive behavior and overstepping his responsibilities as a non-executive leader. Manifold disputed these characterizations, claiming the company terminated his role without advance notice.
Amanda Blanc, the senior independent director who oversaw the search process, announced she would retire at the following year’s annual meeting. Her decision followed criticism related to Manifold’s appointment, particularly given her initial praise of him as well-suited to BP’s strategic needs when he was hired. Blanc acknowledged that governance and conduct issues had emerged that the board deemed unacceptable.
Tyler brings extensive board experience, having previously led construction firm Balfour Beatty and served in senior roles at multiple major companies including Grafton Group, Anglo American, Cairn Energy, Vistry Group, and BAE Systems. He faces the task of overseeing BP’s strategic shift toward increased fossil fuel focus while reducing renewable energy commitments. This governance transition occurs amid ongoing shareholder concerns, with activist investors questioning whether Tyler can address structural issues at the company, particularly following significant protest votes at the recent annual meeting opposing various board-backed resolutions.
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