Revitalising an oil giant: An interview with Dr Tony Hayward, Chief Executive of BP

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how key strategic decisions are made in practice at a successful FTSE 100 company.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on semi‐structured interview with the Chief Executive of BP, Dr Tony Hayward. Dr Hayward has introduced his “Forward Agenda” with the aim of turning BP into a more efficient and simpler organisation to achieve operational efficiency.

Findings

The paper sheds light on ingredients of successful transformation, key elements of growth, strategy implementation, and the link between corporate responsibility and strategy.

Practical implications

The paper presents views of a successful chief executive of a FTSE 100 company. It provides an insight on how strategy is made and executed.

Originality/value

The paper bridges the gap between theory and practice. It provides a practical view and demonstrates how a leading chief executive thinks about key strategic issues.

Citation

O'Regan, N. and Ghobadian, A. (2010), "Revitalising an oil giant: An interview with Dr Tony Hayward, Chief Executive of BP", Journal of Strategy and Management, Vol. 3 No. 2, pp. 174-183. https://doi.org/10.1108/17554251011041805