EMBATTLED Seven West Media boss Tim Worner has stood down as a Sydney Swans board member.

Worner, who is embroiled in a legal stoush with a former employee, said he hoped his resignation would "relieve some pressure" on the club.

"Please be advised that today I have tendered my resignation from the board of the Sydney Swans and that my resignation has been accepted, effective immediately," Worner said in a statement.

"My hope is that by standing down, I can relieve pressure on the board and the club and let them concentrate on the business of football, and a successful home and away season in 2017.

"During last year, working alongside some of the best business and sporting brains in the industry was a privilege - and an experience I'm most grateful for.

"As the club surges towards the last weekend in September, I'll be right there beside them, and wish them every success."

Sydney chairman Andrew Pridham said Worner made a valuable contribution to the club, but acknowledged he is "going through a difficult period."

"We understand his decision to step down to avoid further distraction for the club and to enable him to devote 100 per cent of his efforts to his professional and personal responsibilities," Pridham said.

"We thank him for his contribution and wish him the very best for the future."