West Ham United FC: Karim Virani appointed interim CEO following vice-chair Karren Brady's departure

Karim Virani has been appointed interim CEO of West Ham United FC (Premier League), the club announced on 29/04/2026.

He returns to the club after holding several executive positions between 2015 and 2020, including that of chief commercial officer (from December 2019 to December 2020). His appointment follows the departure of Baroness Karren Brady, who stepped down from her role as vice-chair on 21/04/2026. She had held the position since January 2010, following the club's takeover by David Sullivan and David Gold. Executive director Nathan Thompson also left the club on the same day.

"With a broad and established career across the sports, technology, financial services, telecommunications and broadcast sectors, he has held leadership positions at several global organisations and has a proven track record for delivering consistent and lasting commercial growth," the club said. Karim Virani also served as global director of partnerships at Socios.com (2021-2023) and as chief commercial officer of Rangers FC (William Hill Premiership, 2023-2025).

"He brings great experience…