Baroness Karren Brady has left West Ham United.
The 57-year-old has been at the club for 16 years and was vice-chair.
Her departure comes at a time when fans of the club have been regularly protesting against the board with chants audible again at last night’s draw at Crystal Palace.
The move brings to an end Brady’s business relationship with joint-chair David Sullivan, which stretches back close to 40 years.
Brady, an aide to Lord Sugar on The Apprentice, persuaded Sullivan to buy Birmingham City, where she became managing director in 1993 at the age of 23.
In a statement released by the club, Brady said: ‘It has been a privilege to work alongside the board, management, players, staff and supporters at West Ham United.
‘Together we have achieved remarkable milestones, but the highlight for me will always be lifting the Uefa Europa Conference League trophy – a moment that will stay with me forever. I am deeply grateful for the relationships, challenges and opportunities that have shaped my time at the club.
Baroness Karren Brady has left West ham United after 16 years as vice-chair
Brady has been targeted along with Sullivan throughout what has been a disappointing season
‘While this chapter closes, my passion for football and commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders remains undiminished. I wish West Ham United every success for the future and look forward to following their continued achievements with pride.’
West Ham United have been contacted for comment.
Brady has been targeted along with Sullivan throughout what has been a disappointing season. The Hammers currently find themselves a place and two points above the relegation zone thanks to an upturn in results following the appointment of Nuno Espirito Santo as manager.
A columnist for The Sun, Brady wants to shift her focus to her other business interests and role in the House of Lords, as well as continuing her longstanding role on The Apprentice.
Brady was viewed as a key player in the club’s controversial move from Upton Park to the London Stadium following the 2012 Olympics.
Sullivan said: ‘Karren has been an exceptional leader and a key figure in the club’s development over the years. We wish her every success in her future endeavours and thank her for her outstanding contribution over the past 16 years.’
West Ham joint-chair, Daniel Kretinsky, added: ‘I want to thank Karren most sincerely for our collaboration since 2021, and for all the work she has done in the past for the club.
‘Her contribution to West Ham United’s growth, such as the long-term contract for the London Stadium, shareholders transition and the British record transfer of Declan Rice, has been absolutely essential and not always fully appreciated.
‘Karren is also very highly appreciated in the Premier League leadership community and was an excellent representative of our club there. I wish her the best of luck in all future activities.’
