BP to eliminate about 5% of workforce to cut costs, CEO says

Key Points

  • BP Plc is cutting 4,700 internal jobs and over 3,000 contractor positions to reduce costs.
  • The company has stopped or paused 30 projects since June to focus on high-profit ventures.
  • BP is pushing for digitization, including AI integration across departments.
  • Investors expect a shift back to oil and gas, but there are doubts about the speed of this transition.

Summary

BP Plc, under the leadership of CEO Murray Auchincloss, is undergoing significant restructuring by cutting 4,700 internal jobs and over 3,000 contractor positions, which represents about 5% of its workforce. This move is part of a broader strategy to reduce costs and streamline operations. The company has also halted or paused 30 projects since last June to concentrate on those yielding the highest returns. Amidst these changes, BP is focusing on digitization, with a particular emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence across its departments. Despite these efforts, BP has lagged behind its peers, now valued at less than half of Shell Plc. Investors are anticipating a strategic pivot back to oil and gas, although skepticism remains about the feasibility of a swift turnaround given BP's recent strategic missteps under previous leadership. The job cuts were announced shortly after BP delayed its strategy update, reflecting the ongoing adjustments within the company.

yahoo
January 16, 2025
Stocks
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