Former BP chair Manifold considering legal action over dismissal - report

(Sharecast News) - Former BP chairman Albert Manifold is reportedly considering legal action after he was ousted by the oil firm, which said on Tuesday that "serious" concerns had been raised about "important governance standards, oversight and conduct".

According to The Telegraph, Manifold - who was dismissed without warning - is exploring legal options amid concern that BP may withhold severance payments.

The Irishman was said to have been left "shell-shocked" after being informed of his dismissal just hours before the official announcement.

Manifold has hit back at BP's claims that he had been deposed over a "volcanic" temper, "bullying" and "verbal abuse".

"I dispute entirely the characterisation of my conduct and I will not allow a false narrative to go unchallenged," he said, adding that he had been "removed without warning and without explanation" after just eight months.

A precedent has been set for BP declining to pay off senior staff who have been let go. Former chief executive Bernard Looney was forced to forfeit £32m of pay awards after being ousted in 2023 for misleading the board over past romantic relationships with colleagues.

The Telegraph said Manifold is understood to be concerned the company might adopt the same policy, although that has not been confirmed.

A source close to him told the newspaper: "He is just a bit shell-shocked. This came out of the blue and there was just no warning.

"He found out only yesterday morning and there has been no contact since. He had no opportunity to respond because nothing was put to him. There was nothing from HR."

It was understood that Manifold is seeking advice from city law firm Mishcon de Reya.

In a statement on Wednesday, Manifold pointed to the progress made at BP during his tenure. "During my time as chairman, I worked to drive genuine change at BP, cutting costs, challenging excess and holding the organisation to higher standards," he said. "The board's statement acknowledged the focus and pace I brought."

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