• July 31, 2008

MySpace announced several key executive hires on Wednesday.

Manu Thapar, who previously served as vice president of engineering for Yahoo, has signed on as MySpace's new SVP of engineering. In this role Manu will be responsible for overseeing the company's infrastructure, security and high-priority projects, as well as creating an offshore development team for MySpace.

In addition, Angela Courtin has been appointed to the newly created role of SVP of marketing, entertainment, and content for MySpace, where she is responsible for leading the marketing, branding, promotions, events, content and entertainment teams for MySpace with the objective of increasing growth and public awareness, and driving revenue through marketing programs for the company. Prior to joining MySpace, Angela served as vice president of integrated marketing at MTV Networks.

Tish Whitcraft recently joined MySpace as SVP of customer care, and is now responsible for building scalable global customer support, user experience and satisfaction and driving the user feedback loop back to the business. Most recently, Whitcraft served as vice president of global customer experience and operations at ooma, a consumer VOIP startup.

Jason Oberfest has joined MySpace as vice president of business development, with responsibility for structuring and negotiating deals to drive revenue and support the launch of new products. Most recently, Oberfest served as managing director of business development and product management for Los Angeles Times Interactive.

Finally, Abe Thomas now serves as vice president of online marketing for MySpace, responsible for developing the overall strategy for acquiring new customers through online advertising, affiliates and search marketing. Abe previously held leadership positions at eBay and PayPal, including leading eBay's paid and natural search programs, and managing eBay India's internet marketing program.--Gavin O'Malley