Ousted BP Chairman Albert Manifold Refutes "Lies" About Conduct After Dismissal

Albert Manifold has vehemently rejected what he terms "lies" circulating about his conduct, following his abrupt dismissal as BP chairman. Manifold, who served less than a year in the role, stated that those commenting on his tenure should not be afforded anonymity.

His statement arrived in the wake of reports detailing his behaviour, which led to BP's board removing him with immediate effect on Tuesday. A BP spokesperson responded, affirming: "We note the comments of our former chair. We stand by the statement we have made. We have a duty of care to all our employees, particularly those impacted by his behaviour."

Sources indicate Manifold's removal was precipitated by concerns including "bullying" and "overbearing" behaviour. While BP declined to confirm these specific reasons, the board's decision was unanimous.

Manifold, on Thursday, acknowledged the board's decision but maintained that during his time as chairman, no issues regarding his conduct or relationships with colleagues were ever formally raised. "In my 40-year working career, I have never once had accusations made against me such as those made in recent days. I dispute entirely this characterisation of my conduct," he asserted.

He further elaborated that his priorities as chairman, particularly regarding shareholder interests, "were not always shared by everyone," noting he challenged "unnecessary or excessive expenditure." Manifold emphasised, "I had no interest in taking private aviation nor in availing myself of corporate tickets for sports events. I made my own coffee, bought my lunch in the local cafe."

Amanda Blanc, the senior independent director, previously stated on Tuesday that the board was "surprised and disappointed to learn of governance oversight and conduct issues it deems unacceptable and has taken decisive action."

Manifold joined BP last September, becoming chairman the following month. He suggested that in his determination to "drive change on costs, performance, the balance sheet and shareholder communications," he may have pushed hard, but maintained there was a "considerable distance between driving an organisation with urgency and the characterisation of my conduct that is now being put about."

Manifold's departure follows a contentious annual general meeting last month, where nearly a fifth of BP shareholders voted against his election due to governance concerns.