AOL (NYSE: AOL) announced today that it is hiring Susan Lyne, Vice Chair of online fashion company Gilt and an AOL board member, to manage the online company's brand portfolio. In her new role, Ms. Lyne will oversee all aspects of the brand's growth strategy, and her appointment comes as part of AOL's larger corporate strategy to give more autonomy and accountability to each of its divisions (Membership, Networks, and Brand).
In a statement today, Lyne said:
In my three years as an AOL board member, I have partnered with Tim Armstrong and my fellow directors to help drive the company's transformation, and have seen AOL make great strides as it continues to innovate, grow and evolve. I'm looking forward to contributing to the company's continued evolution in my new role, and will focus on creating additional value with all of AOL's premium brands. Our efforts center on making all of our brands true destinations for audiences worldwide, and to provide marketers with innovative opportunities to connect with these audiences.
At Gilt, Lyne served as CEO from 2008 to 2010, and Chair from 2010 until her recent transition to Vice Chair. From 2004 to 2008, she served as President and CEO of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, where she earned approximately $1.7 million in her final year.
