Credit: Imago

Max Wilkins

Tue 21 April 2026 10:13, UK

Karren Brady has left her role as vice-chair of West Ham United with a new venture in mind.

The 57-year-old has cut a controversial figure in E20 since taking up a role with the claret and blue outfit in January 2010.

Fans have held a long-standing grudge against the business executive due to her part to play in the London Stadium move in 2016.

Despite widespread negativity surrounding the baroness, she remained in the East London boardroom for a lengthy period.

Brady has stepped down from her role at West Ham and now has shared her next steps in mind after 16 years with the Irons.

Karren Brady shifts focus to new interests

There have been highs and lows throughout the 1969-born business executive’s spell with the Hammers.

Winning the Conference League is a clear plus point, although relegation in 2011 and recent struggles in the Premier League haven’t gone down well.

The London Stadium move was meant to be the jewel in her crown, but things haven’t worked out despite her dreams to “take our club to the very top of the world’s most-popular sport.”

That hasn’t exactly worked out, and instead of pushing on with that aim, she has decided to step down from her role at Rush Green.

The Times shared the news on Tuesday and revealed that Brady is set to shift her focus to other business interests and her role in the House of Lords.

That will coincide with her role as an aide to Lord Alan Sugar on the popular television series, The Apprentice.

Brady has faced protests at West Ham this season, and now supporters have seemingly got their wish out of the blue.

What has Brady said after confirming West Ham exit?

The business executive may have become a big name in the Premier League, but that hasn’t stopped fan discontent over the years.

She and David Sullivan have come under increasing scrutiny as performances on the pitch continue to fall away, and financial frustrations also come into view.

Despite that, Brady has released a statement that reveals her love for the Hammers as she walks out of the doors at the London Stadium

It reads: “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.

“While this chapter closes, my passion for football and commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders remain undiminished. I wish West Ham United every success for the future and look forward to following their continued achievements with pride.”

The Irons faithful are unlikely to look back at her reign with rose-tinted glasses, regardless of how Brady speaks of her time in East London.