Tony Hayward Must Go

BP's disgusting safety record is rooted in managerial incompetence. Prior to Hayward's ascendancy numerous accidents in a variety of facilities proved that BP was watching their share price more closely than their work product. That work product should provide the basis for the share price. I suspect that quarterly and annual bonus payments are tied to interim results and that either cost reduction or money not spent goes a long way towards such payments. BP has a history of delaying maintenance and other safety compliance rules to save money. Such deferrals may work a few times but a some point the maintenance must be done and the rules observed.


Mr. Hayward's latest remarks about wanting his life back are despicable, childish, arrogant, and evidence that he still doesn't get it. There were warning signs ignored prior to this latest accident. Corporate culture and the behavior that flows from it are dictated from the top. Tolerance, perhaps even encouragement, of sloppy and reckless actions have now resulted in a environmental disaster the scope of which is still unknown.

Mr. Hayward should do the honorable thing and leave the field, admitting his feckless behavior and basic incompetence. In addition it might be advisable for the entire management be restructured with replacements being vetted for their technical and managerial strengths. A commitment to excellence will guarantee profits and trust. For now it appears that British Petroleum is nothing more than a platform to bilk the shareholders and the public while enriching the hired hands.