News Corporation has appointed Owen Van Natta to the role of MySpace CEO.

Van Natta will be based in Los Angeles and report directly to Jonathan Miller, News Corporation’s CEO of digital media and chief digital officer.

“Owen combines a deep understanding of social networking, a keen business sense and the operational experience to guide MySpace through its next phase of growth. I’m confident his leadership will be an invaluable asset. I plan to work closely with Owen to shape our long-term vision around this vibrant community that already attracts more than 130 million users worldwide,” says Miller.

Van Natta previously served as chief revenue officer and vice president of operations for Facebook, where he helped negotiate Facebook’s $240 million investment from Microsoft.

Earlier, he served as vice president of worldwide business and corporate development for Amazon.com. Most recently, he was the CEO of Playlist, Inc., an online music company.

“I’m thrilled to have the privilege to pilot MySpace in what is sure to be an incredibly exciting and rewarding next chapter for the business,” says Van Natta.