BP Makes Interim Chairman Ian Tyler's Role Permanent — Update

By Michael Hennessey

BP said its interim chairman, Ian Tyler, would take on the role permanently, becoming the U.K. oil major's third chair in less than a year given the removal of Albert Manifold in May.

The appointment ends a three-month search and follows a period of management upheaval at BP as the company seeks to move back to its oil-and-gas roots after a push into renewables. BP's chief executive, Meg O'Neill, started in her role in April.

Tyler, who joined BP's board as a nonexecutive director in April last year and was appointed interim chairman after Manifold's exit, is also chair of building-materials distributor Grafton Group and senior independent director of Anglo American. He plans to review his existing board commitments to ensure he can focus on his new role, the company said.

BP's new chair--who also spent 17 years at construction company Balfour Beatty, including eight as CEO--is the company's third in the past year, as Manifold succeeded Helge Lund in October but was ousted less than eight months into the role. BP has also had three permanent CEOs since 2023 and has seen turnover among executives and board directors.

Manifold joined BP last year to help oversee a turnaround after a series of missteps had left its shares trailing behind peers, but the company removed him on May 26, citing "serious concerns" about governance and conduct. In response, Manifold hit out at what he described as lies about his behavior at the company.

The board and management changes come at a time when BP is pursuing a shake-up of its portfolio under O'Neill to try to boost profit.

Last month, the company reported a surge in profits, boosted by a strong oil-trading performance and higher energy prices.

Higher prices, increased refining margins and market volatility have given energy companies an earnings boost, as the conflict between the U.S. and Iran continues.

Amanda Blanc, BP's senior independent director who led the chair search, said Tyler brings significant experience challenging and providing support to executive teams, as well as strong governance and oversight on behalf of shareholders, to the role.

"I will lead the board's evolution, ensuring we have the depth, experience and capabilities needed to support the company's strategic priorities and long-term value creation," Tyler said.

Blanc won't stand for re-election as senior independent director at the 2027 annual general meeting, BP said.

Write to Michael Hennessey at michael.hennessey@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

September 02, 2026 04:09 ET (08:09 GMT)