Dame Amanda Blanc, chief executive of Aviva, is facing scrutiny from some shareholders over her concurrent role as a senior independent director at BP, highlighting the challenges that can arise when FTSE 100 executives take on non-executive positions in other major companies. While holding additional roles is often encouraged for chief executives to broaden their leadership experience, the demands of such positions can sometimes create tensions.

Approximately one in three FTSE 100 chief executives hold non-executive roles outside their primary company, but relatively few serve on the boards of other FTSE 100 firms. Blanc is among this select group, balancing her leadership at Aviva with responsibilities on BP’s board since 2022.

Blanc’s tenure at Aviva has been widely regarded as successful, reflected in a more than 50 percent increase in the insurer’s share price since she joined BP’s board. However, her involvement at BP has come under increased scrutiny following the abrupt removal of Albert Manifold as BP chairman. Blanc, who had played a central role in Manifold’s appointment last year, is now leading the search for his replacement amid internal upheaval.

Observers note the situation underscores the potential complexities and time demands non-executive roles can entail. A fund manager described Blanc’s experience as a “cautionary tale” regarding the high level of commitment required to navigate such governance issues effectively.

Despite the controversy, there is no indication that Blanc’s performance at Aviva has suffered. Some analysts suggest that her direct exposure to crisis management at BP could ultimately enhance her skills as a corporate leader. Nevertheless, the episode raises broader questions about how chief executives manage the balance between primary and additional board duties in high-pressure environments.