AOL to name new net chief

TROUBLED US media giant AOL Time Warner is expected to appoint Jonathan Miller as chief executive of its America Online internet service provider, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Miller, 45, who was number two to Barry Diller at USA Interactive, is expected to overhaul the online division and may cull what many see as a top-heavy management structure. He is also expected to try to win new subscribers with a more exciting blend of content and e-commerce.

AOL's advertising revenues have dropped sharply recently and its subscriber growth has slowed as US cable companies begin offering high-speed broadband internet access.

Miller's career has included the National Basketball Association's cable TV operations, Nickelodeon and the Home Shopping Network.