BP names Ian Tyler permanent chair after turbulent ouster of Albert Manifold

BP announced that Ian Tyler will assume the chairmanship on a permanent basis, concluding a prolonged hunt for a successor after Albert Manifold’s abrupt exit in late May. Manifold, who served only eight months, was removed over alleged governance oversight and conduct issues, with reports that colleagues felt belittled and that he acted like an executive. The board’s senior independent director, Amanda Blanc—also chief executive of Aviva—oversaw the recruitment and said she will resign at the upcoming annual meeting.

Tyler brings experience from leading Balfour Beatty, chairing Grafton Group, and serving on boards such as Anglo American, Cairn Energy and BAE Systems. He is expected to guide BP’s strategic shift back toward fossil-fuel extraction and away from renewable projects. Chief executive Meg O’Neill recently highlighted the company’s strong earnings and its plan to sell the North Sea business despite urging the UK government to use domestic oil and gas resources.