Karren Brady has stepped down as vice-chair of West Ham. She joined the club’s board in January 2010 and has announced her departure the morning after West Ham drew at Crystal Palace to sit two points above the Premier League’s relegation zone.

Brady and the co-owner David Sullivan have been the target of fan anger. In a statement to the Times, 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.

“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.”

Brady was appointed managing director of Birmingham City in 1993, at the age of 23, and sold the club in 2009 before joining West Ham, again working alongside Sullivan.

West Ham’s joint-chair Daniel Kretinsky said: “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.”