BP Media Relations and the Deepwater Horizon Crisis
Corporate communication plays a pivotal role in how global companies manage their public image, especially during times of extreme crisis. For BP, one of the world's largest energy companies, the period between 2009 and 2010 marked a significant transition in its media relations strategy during one of the most challenging environmental disasters in history.
Leadership Transition in Media Relations
In the autumn of 2009, BP underwent a change in its communications leadership. Gowers was appointed as the head of media relations, taking over the role from his predecessor, Roddy Kennedy. This position is responsible for managing the flow of information between the corporation and the press, ensuring that the company's messaging is consistent and aligned with its corporate goals.
Managing the Deepwater Horizon Disaster
Shortly after Gowers assumed leadership, BP faced an unprecedented catastrophe. On April 20, 2010, the Deepwater Horizon oil disaster occurred, resulting in a massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. As the head of media relations, Gowers was tasked with the immense responsibility of handling the company's media response to the disaster.
Crisis communication in such scenarios involves managing intense global scrutiny, coordinating press releases, and addressing the environmental and social impact of the incident in real-time.
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Timeline and Departure
The pressure of managing the fallout from the Deepwater Horizon incident defined Gowers' tenure at the company. After leading the media response throughout the peak of the crisis, Gowers resigned from his position at the end of 2010.
Key Facts
- Appointment: Gowers joined BP as head of media relations in Autumn 2009.
- Predecessor: Roddy Kennedy previously held the media relations lead role.
- Major Event: The Deepwater Horizon oil disaster occurred on April 20, 2010.
- Primary Responsibility: Gowers managed the media response to the 2010 oil spill.
- Departure: Gowers resigned from BP at the end of 2010.
| Personnel | Role | Key Period/Event |
|---|---|---|
| Roddy Kennedy | Head of Media Relations | Pre-Autumn 2009 |
| Gowers | Head of Media Relations | Autumn 2009 – End of 2010 |
| N/A | Crisis Event | Deepwater Horizon (April 20, 2010) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who replaced Roddy Kennedy at BP?
Gowers replaced Roddy Kennedy as the head of media relations in the autumn of 2009.
When did the Deepwater Horizon disaster happen?
The Deepwater Horizon oil disaster occurred on April 20, 2010.
What was Gowers' primary role during the 2010 oil spill?
Gowers was responsible for handling BP's media response to the Deepwater Horizon disaster.
When did Gowers leave BP?
Gowers resigned from his position at the end of 2010.