Six months ago Albert Manifold convinced Meg O’Neill to become BP’s chief executive, a role seen as a poisoned chalice after two exits in three years. This week the board ousted Manifold as chair amid serious concerns over his conduct and multiple whistleblower complaints, and allegations of bullying in the boardroom.

Manifold said the removal was a surprise and vowed to challenge the claims, asserting he had driven genuine change at BP by cutting costs, challenging excess, and enforcing higher standards. The decision follows a failed pivot toward renewables that left BP lagging competitors and sparked investor anxiety and share prices.

Since April, O’Neill has split BP into two core units, reverting to a traditional oil and gas focus after earlier attempts to become an energy transition leader. Her decisive moves aim to restore investor confidence and stabilize a company that has seen shares rise over 20% since Manifold’s arrival today.

The board’s abrupt action raises questions about governance and may expose O’Neill as the sole bearer of turnaround responsibility in investors’ eyes. Analysts note that while the move could dent BP’s share price, the company’s strategic direction remains unchanged, keeping the focus on cost cuts and a return to operations.