BP appointed Ian Tyler as its permanent chairman on September 2, 2026, concluding an extensive search process that included internal and external candidates [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. Tyler had served as interim chairman since May 26, 2026, after Albert Manifold was removed suddenly less than eight months into his tenure [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
Manifold was ousted over serious concerns about governance, oversight, and conduct, though BP did not provide full details [1, 2, 4, 5]. Manifold strongly denied the allegations, calling them false and rejecting the company’s narrative as lies [1, 2, 4, 5]. This difference marks a key division over the reasons for his removal.
Ian Tyler joined BP’s board as a non-executive director in April 2025 and brings significant leadership experience, including as former CEO of Balfour Beatty and current chairmanships at Grafton Group and Anglo American [1, 2, 3, 4]. Dame Amanda Blanc, BP’s senior independent director who oversaw both Manifold’s ousting and Tyler’s appointments, praised Tyler’s ability to challenge and support executive teams while maintaining strong governance on behalf of shareholders [3].
Blanc also announced she will not seek re-election at the 2027 annual general meeting and will step down once a successor is appointed [1, 2, 3, 4]. She expressed confidence leaving BP with a strong foundation under the leadership of CEO Meg O’Neill and new chairman Ian Tyler [4].
Meg O’Neill became BP CEO in April 2026, shortly before Manifold’s removal, signaling a fresh leadership phase [2, 4, 5]. Under Tyler’s chairmanship, BP is reportedly shifting strategy to emphasize oil and gas extraction more than renewables [2]. The company recently reported its highest quarterly profits, boosted by rising oil and gas prices amid Middle East tensions [2].
BP’s statement noted the extensive search process that led to Tyler’s permanent appointment [5]. The board meanwhile will now focus on filling Amanda Blanc’s upcoming vacancy, with the next shareholder vote scheduled for the 2027 AGM [1, 2, 3, 4].
