BP PLC has confirmed Ian Tyler as its permanent chairman, effective immediately, after completing a search that evaluated both internal and external candidates. The decision follows a period of leadership transition at the oil major that included the board's earlier removal of former chairman Albert Manifold, a move the company said was prompted by serious concerns regarding governance standards, oversight and conduct.
Tyler became a non-executive director on BP's board in April 2025 and was elevated to interim chair on May 26, 2026. His appointment to the permanent chair role comes after a review process that concluded the board had confidence in his stewardship.
In his non-executive career, Tyler has worked alongside more than 15 chief executives across listed and private businesses in sectors including oil and gas, natural resources and engineering. He currently chairs building materials company Grafton Group and serves as senior independent director at miner Anglo American. His previous roles include chairing Cairn Energy and serving as a non-executive director of BAE Systems.
BP also announced a forthcoming change among its non-executive directors. Amanda Blanc, a board member who oversaw both the appointment of Albert Manifold and the elevation of Ian Tyler, will not stand for re-election at next year’s annual general meeting. She will step down from the board once a successor has been identified and appointed.
"I am delighted that the board has unanimously appointed Ian Tyler as Chair of BP. Ian brings significant experience providing challenge and support to executive teams, while maintaining strong governance and oversight on behalf of shareholders," said Blanc, BP’s senior independent director.
"These qualities have been evident during his time as Interim Chair, where he has secured the confidence of the board and executive management through his considered leadership, judgement and integrity."
The board's statements underline a period of governance-focused change at BP, with the company signalling continuity under Tyler's permanent leadership and noting the planned departure of a senior independent director once a replacement is found.
Contextual note: The information presented here reflects BP's announcements about board composition and leadership changes as stated by the company. No additional claims or events beyond those disclosed by BP have been added.