BP's upstream chief exec McKay promoted to deputy CEO role

Oil major BP announced the appointment of Lamar McKay – currently chief executive of the company’s upstream segment – to the new position of deputy group chief executive.

In a statement ahead of its fourth quarter results on Tuesday, BP said McKay will be succeeded as upstream chief executive by Bernard Looney, currently chief operating officer, production, in the upstream segment.

McKay’s responsibilities will include strategy and long-term planning, safety and operational risk, technology, and corporate governance, including ethics and compliance, and BP America will continue to report to him.

In addition, BP said executive vice president of corporate business activities, Katrina Landis, will retire from the company on 1 May following a 24-year career.

Group chief executive Bob Dudley said: “These changes simplify, focus and better align accountabilities within our experienced and versatile senior team. In particular Lamar’s new role will allow us to further concentrate our attention on BP’s highest priorities through this challenging time for our whole industry.”

Landis will not be replaced on the executive team and her current role’s responsibilities will be assigned to other members.