Albert Manifold, the BP chairman who was abruptly removed from his post earlier this week, has hit back at what he says is a "false narrative" around his ousting.
Manifold, who was only appointed in July last year and didn't take up the role until October, had been brought in as BP looked to boost profits and shareholder confidence by backing away from renewables projects and doubling down on oil and gas.
But he was removed this week amid "serious concerns" over his conduct and "bullying" claims.
Now, The Times reports, Manifold has spoken out to refute the allegations and claim he was removed “without warning and without explanation”.
He said: “I dispute entirely the characterisation of my conduct and I will not allow a false narrative to go unchallenged."
BP declined to comment when asked by The Times whether bullying behaviour was part of the reason for his immediate dismissal.