Energy CFOs have been cited as the frontrunners for the plum financial role
at BP, as
the shadowy Byron Grote refuses to quell speculation on his future by making a
statement of intent.
Headhunters have said that Ashley Almanza, the equally reclusive financial
boss of BG Group could be in pole
position. Shell’s financial boss, Peter Voser has also been mentioned as a
possible successor if they recruit outside the company.
A source said: ‘If BP decided to go externally for someone with plc
experience, I think the main focus would be on comparable competitors. People
like Ashley Almanza and Peter Voser would definitely be in the frame.’
Grote, 58, is nearing BP’s retirement age of 60, but has not clarified his
position which has come under the spotlight since Lord Browne stepped down last
week.
At the time of going to press, neither BG Group or Royal Dutch Shell had
confirmed whether their respective FDs would be committing their futures to
their companies if the plum role at BP came up for grabs.