Newsmaker

MySpace CEO steps down

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-02-11 15:59

LOS ANGELES: The chief executive officer of popular social-networking site MySpace stepped down on Wednesday due to his "priorities both personally and professionally."

Owen Van Natta took over the Los Angeles-based position only nine months ago. Before that, he worked for chief MySpace competitor Facebook.

"MySpace is an incredibly unique place and we've made real gains in terms of product focus and user experience," Van Natta said. "I'm proud of the work we've all accomplished together and look forward to watching its continued growth."

Van Natta agreed to leave the post after a discussion with Jon Miller, chairman and CEO of Digital Media for MySpace parent company News Corp., according to MySpace.

"Owen took on an incredible challenge in working to refocus and revitalize MySpace, and the business has shown very positive signs recently as a result of his dedicated work," Miller said.

"However, in talking to Owen about his priorities both personally and professionally going forward, we both agreed that it was best for him to step down at this time," Miller said. "I want to thank Owen for all of his efforts."

Van Natta will be replaced by Mike Jones and Jason Hirschhorn, who were serving as chief operating officer and chief product officer, respectively.

All three men joined MySpace in April 2009.