bp appoints Birrel to lead upstream segment in newly organized structure

bp plc has named Gordon Birrell to lead the company’s upstream business segment as executive vice-president.

The move comes as the operator simplifies its organizational structure into two business segments, upstream and downstream. The new structure, which replaces the current three-segment structure of production and operations (P&O), gas and low carbon energy (G&LCE), and customers and products (C&P), is effective July 1, 2026.

The upstream segment will focus on resource development and production, bringing together bp’s oil and gas regions, including exploration, development, and production activities. It will also include bp’s upstream joint ventures and its renewable natural gas and CCS businesses.

The downstream segment, which will be led by Richard Harding as interim executive vice-president until a permanent placement is made, will center on customers and markets. Downstream will include refining, terminals, pipelines, mobility and convenience, biofuels, aviation, hydrogen and Castrol.

Supply, trading, and shipping will continue to operate across both segments.

Renewable businesses, including solar and offshore wind, will sit within the technology function as bp continues to advance a capital-light model in these areas, bp said.

The changes are part of the operator's larger plan to simplify its portfolio, reduce costs, maintain capital discipline, and strengthen its balance sheet.