Oil and gas major BP has appointed Meg O’Neill as its new CEO, making her the first woman to run a major global oil firm.
O’Neill will take over from Murray Auchincloss, who has decided to step down from his position as CEO and director of the board, after less than two years in the role.
BP executive vice president Carol Howle will serve as interim CEO until O’Neill takes up her role on April 1, 2026.
Auchincloss will step down on December 18 but will continue in an advisory role to ensure a smooth transition.
O’Neill said she is honoured to serve as the company’s next CEO as BP plays a critical role in delivering energy to global customers.
“I look forward to working with the bp leadership team and colleagues worldwide to accelerate performance, advance safety, drive innovation and sustainability and do our part to meet the world’s energy needs.”
Auchincloss, who took over from Bernard Looney in September 2024, said he was open to stepping down if an appropriate leader was found.
“I am confident that BP is now well positioned for significant growth, and I look forward to watching the company’s future progress.”
BP praised O’Neill’s tenure as CEO of Woodside Energy, noting that since she took over as CEO in 2021, Woodside Energy has grown into the largest energy company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.
O’Neill also oversaw the acquisition of BHP Petroleum International, creating a geographically diverse business with a portfolio of high-quality oil and gas assets.
Meanwhile, Woodside Energy has appointed Liz Westcott as acting CEO, effective December 18.
Westcott was previously the COO at Energy Australia.
Woodside Chair Richard Goyder said Westcott’s appointment provides strong continuity for its business.
Westcott and her team “will focus on safe and efficient operations, execution of major projects and retaining an unwavering focus on staying the strategic course laid out most recently at Woodside’s November 2025 Capital Markets Day,” Goyder said.
Woodside’s board is focused on CEO succession planning as they evaluate both internal and external candidates.
The board is confident of announcing a permanent appointment in the first quarter of 2026.
