BP names interim CEO Murray Auchincloss new CEO

Mr Auchincloss has headed the company since September 2023, when former chief executive Bernard Looney resigned due to allegations relating to his "personal relationships with company colleagues".

After multiple allegations surfaced, Mr Looney resigned due to what BP said was a lack of transparency in his "disclosure of past personal relationships". Mr Looney worked for BP for the entirety of his career, joining the London-based company in 1991 at the age of 21. He was chief executive from July 2020 until his resignation and oversaw increased efforts to cut BP’s emissions and invest in renewables.

BP said it appointed its new chief executive Murray Auchincloss after "a robust and competitive search process" carried out over four months with "detailed consideration of a range of candidates, including external to BP".

BP chair Helge Lund said, “The board is in complete agreement that Murray was the outstanding candidate and is the right leader for BP. Many already know Murray well, and few know BP better than he does.” 

Mr Auchincloss said, “It’s an honour to lead BP – this is a great company with great people. Our strategy – from international oil company to integrated energy company, or IOC to IEC – does not change. I’m convinced about the significant value we can create. Now, more than ever, our focus must remain on delivery – operating safely and efficiently, executing with discipline, and always focusing on returns. This is how we will deliver real benefits for our customers and other stakeholders and continue to grow long-term value for BP’s shareholders.”