West Ham today revealed that Vanessa Gold has taken on the family shares in the club previously held by her late father, David.
David Gold died in January aged 86 and daughter Vanessa has vowed to "continue our family legacy", after being appointed to the board of directors at London Stadium.
She becomes joint-chair, the position held by her father. David Gold was a regular visitor to the training ground and Vanessa is due to go to Rush Green to meet the squad next week, as well as doing likewise with staff at London Stadium.
David Sullivan is the majority shareholder at West Ham with a 38.8 per cent stake. Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky is the second-largest shareholder with a 27% stake, while Vanessa takes on a 25.1% stake.
Vanessa said: "West Ham means so much to me and my family. My late father's deep-rooted history and love of the club is well known and it will be an honour and privilege to continue our family legacy."
Sullivan said: “I am delighted to welcome Vanessa to the board of directors at West Ham United.
“David Gold and I were close friends and business partners for almost half a century and it is very reassuring to see David’s legacy continued in his name. West Ham is built on strong family values, and it is important we continue to cherish that. Vanessa is already a loyal member of the West Ham family, and we look forward to working together.
“Vanessa is already a familiar and loyal member of the West Ham family, and we look forward to working together.”
Vice-chair Karren Brady, said: “We are delighted to welcome Vanessa to the board of directors at West Ham United. She brings strong business acumen and experience and I am sure she will make a hugely positive impact that will be of great benefit to the football club.”
