BP has appointed Meg O’Neill as its new chief executive, making her the first woman to lead a major global oil company. She will succeed Murray Auchincloss, who will step down after less than two years in the role.
O’Neill, currently the CEO of Australian energy firm Woodside Energy, will begin her new position on April 1. BP executive vice president Carol Howle will serve as interim CEO until then.
O’Neill said she looks forward to helping BP “do our part to meet the world’s energy needs” and plans to prioritize re-establishing market leadership, safety, innovation, and sustainability.
Auchincloss took over in September 2024 following the departure of Bernard Looney, who was ousted for “serious misconduct” over undisclosed workplace relationships.
Auchincloss stated he had informed BP’s chairman last September that he was open to stepping down if a suitable successor was found. He will serve in an advisory capacity until December 2026.
BP highlighted O’Neill’s track record at Woodside, where she oversaw the major acquisition of BHP Petroleum International in 2022 and grew the company into the largest energy firm listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.
Before joining Woodside, she spent 23 years in various technical, operational, and leadership roles at ExxonMobil.
By James Kisoo
