Albert Manifold, the former chairman of BP, has publicly contested the reasons for his recent dismissal, refuting allegations about his conduct and labeling them as "lies." Manifold, who held the chairman position for less than a year, stated that individuals should not be permitted to "hide behind anonymity" when discussing his tenure at the energy company.
His statement was issued following BP's board decision to remove him with immediate effect on Tuesday, in response to reports concerning his behavior. A BP spokesperson acknowledged Manifold's comments, stating, "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."
The BBC has reported that Manifold's removal was prompted by concerns over alleged "bullying" and "overbearing" behavior. While BP has declined to comment specifically on whether bullying was a factor in his dismissal, the board's decision was reportedly unanimous.
Manifold confirmed on Thursday that he accepted the board's decision that he would no longer serve as chairman. However, he asserted that during his time in the role, no issues concerning his conduct or relationships with colleagues were ever brought to his attention. "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 stated.
He also indicated that his focus on shareholder interests and driving changes in areas such as costs, performance, the balance sheet, and shareholder communications may not have been universally supported. Manifold mentioned that he had called out instances of "unnecessary or excessive expenditure." He further clarified his personal conduct, stating he had no interest in private aviation or corporate event tickets and that he handled personal expenses like making his own coffee and buying lunch from local cafes.
Senior independent director Amanda Blanc had previously stated on Tuesday that the board had been "surprised and disappointed to learn of governance oversight and conduct issues it deems unacceptable and has taken decisive action." Manifold joined BP in September and was appointed chairman the following month. At the time of his appointment, BP had stated that Manifold possessed "a strong track record of strategic leadership and operational delivery."
Commenting on his chairmanship, Manifold acknowledged that his determination to "drive change on costs, performance, the balance sheet and shareholder communications" might have led him to push hard and challenge people directly. He emphasized, "But there is 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 significant portion of BP shareholders, nearly a fifth, voting against his election at the company's annual general meeting last month due to governance concerns.
