The preparation of bis(2,2'-bipyridyl)copper(II) permanganate (BBCP) is described. The reagent converts alcohols to the corresponding carbonyl compounds, α-hydroxy ketones to diketones, hydroquinone to p-benzoquinone, and compounds with benzylic double bonds to benzaldehyde in high yield. Benzophenone oxime, acetophenone oxime and various benzaldoximes are converted to the corresponding carbonyl compounds