Oil giant BP has removed its chairman, Albert Manifold, with immediate effect following serious concerns including allegations of bullying and overbearing behaviour, the BBC has learned.

The company stated that Manifold's dismissal was a result of "serious concerns related to important governance standards, oversight and conduct." This abrupt departure comes less than a year after Manifold joined BP. The company has declined to comment on specific reasons for his dismissal, but the BBC understands that issues surrounding his conduct were central to the decision.

One individual close to the company described the situation as significant, stating that such a drastic measure would not be taken "unless it was serious." Senior independent director Amanda Blanc acknowledged that the board was "surprised and disappointed" to discover governance oversight and conduct issues that they deemed unacceptable, leading to decisive action. The decision to remove Manifold was unanimous among the board members.

Ian Tyler, the senior independent director, has been appointed interim chairman. Manifold's tenure was intended to guide BP back towards a primary focus on oil and gas, shifting away from renewable energy. He joined BP as a non-executive director in September 2025 and was appointed chairman the following month, with the company initially highlighting his strong track record in strategic leadership.

Manifold's removal follows a period of significant financial results for BP, which reported a doubling in profit to $3.2 billion (£2.4 billion) for the first quarter of the year, largely driven by an exceptional performance in its oil trading business amidst surging oil prices following the start of the Iran war. This financial rebound occurred despite shareholder concerns raised at the company's recent annual general meeting.

Notably, nearly a fifth of BP shareholders voted against Manifold's election at the AGM. This opposition was partly linked to BP's refusal to include a resolution proposed by climate activists, a decision Manifold had justified by stating the resolution was not filed correctly. The circumstances surrounding his departure raise questions about internal governance and the board's handling of alleged misconduct.

BP's share price experienced a decline of approximately 5% in the wake of the announcement regarding Manifold's removal, reflecting investor reaction to the unexpected leadership change and potential governance instability.

Further details regarding the specific nature of the "bullying and overbearing behaviour" have not been disclosed by the company. The BBC has attempted to contact Albert Manifold for comment on the situation.