Karren Brady has stepped down as West Ham United’s vice-chair after 16 years, following a tumultuous season that has left the club fighting relegation. The 57-year-old, who was a pioneering figure in the male-dominated sport, said she wanted to focus on her television career and duties in the House of Lords.
Brady’s departure was announced on Tuesday, a day after West Ham drew 0-0 with Crystal Palace. It sparked further boardroom upheaval, with chief financial officer Andy Mollett set to leave at the end of the season and executive director Nathan Thompson stepping down with immediate effect. Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky is expected to help identify replacements.
The shake-up comes as Kretinsky moves to increase his stake in the club, buying a significant portion of the Gold family’s 25.1% shareholding. David Sullivan, who partnered with the late David Gold to buy West Ham in 2010, is also purchasing part of the Gold shares. Both men are expected to own more than 40% of the club, giving Kretinsky greater influence over major decisions.
Despite fan protests targeting him and Brady under the “No More BS” campaign, Sullivan has shown no intention of leaving. The 77-year-old has long-term plans to safeguard his position, according to a source familiar with the process. West Ham, 17th in the Premier League with five games remaining, posted a loss of £104.2m in the last financial year and may need to sell key players in the summer.
Brady was credited with leading the negotiations that moved West Ham to the London Stadium in 2016 and described the club’s 2023 Europa Conference League triumph as the highlight of her tenure. Kretinsky said: “Her contribution to West Ham United has been immense. We respect her decision and wish her well.”
