SoftNet Systems Inc. said it named former Viacom Cable executive Garrett J. Girvan its CEO, a move that comes in the wake of troubled times at the company's ISP Channel subsidiary.
Girvan replaces Lawrence B. Brilliant, who is stepping down due to health concerns. Brilliant, who assumed the CEO spot in April 1998, will remain chairman of the SoftNet board and will oversee the company's strategic direction.
Girvan joined SoftNet nearly three years ago and most recently served as the company's chief operating officer. Girvan also will continue to serve as president of Aerzone, a new SoftNet subsidiary focused on delivering content via wireless broadband protocols such as 802.11.
Aerzone has already forged development deals with United Airlines Corp. and Delta Air Lines.
Girvan takes SoftNet's top post at a difficult time. Late last month, the company said it had slashed the work force at its ISP Channel cable-modem service subsidiary by another 25 percent as part of a restructuring slated for completion early next year. In October, SoftNet trimmed ISP Channel's forces by 33 percent and had said the remaining staff would support Aerzone.
Girvan was not available for further comment.
SoftNet has given High Speed Access Corp. clearance to negotiate with ISP Channel's existing cable affiliates.
