Luke McKeever, the chairman of innovative internet platform Neighbourly, has moved to the more hands-on role of CEO at the firm to free up founder Nick Davies to focus on building its unique brand.
Luke McKeever, pictured, joined Neighbourly last September, just two months after its official launch. The firm, which has bases in Bristol and Bath, aims to revolutionise corporate social responsibility by connecting local community projects with companies that want to make a difference. 
In the past year it has helped major brands pledge almost £2m and arrange 6,500 volunteer days to local community causes.
Luke McKeever brings a strong track record in growing successful international technology businesses having served as CEO for Portrait Software, the UK-listed customer interaction optimisation specialist acquired by Pitney Bowes for £44m in 2010, and OB10, the global trading network acquired by Tungsten Corporation for £100m in 2013.
As Neighbourly’s CEO, he will now oversee day-to-day operations as continues its transition from ambitious UK startup to rapid growth, international organisation. It recently recruited Lloyd Buxton as head of client engagement and Annette Mercer as head of operations to help continue the rapid scaling of the business. Experienced tech entrepreneur and founder of Bristol-based marketing software firm Alterian David Eldridge also joined its board as a non-executive director.
The firm, which has its Bristol base in the the city’s Engine Shed innovation hub, recently closed its third funding round and last week announced plans for the Netherlands to become the second ‘Neighbourly Nation’
Nick Davies said: “Neighbourly has made huge strides this year. As we grow, we need an experienced eye on ensuring we continue to deliver a positive impact for companies, and the causes and volunteers in local communities.
“Luke’s knowledge and his belief in our purpose make him the perfect match for the CEO role. It also gives me the time required to concentrate on driving awareness and understanding of Neighbourly’s role in transforming the intersection between business and society, to the benefit of local communities.”
Luke McKeever added: “In our journey so far, it has become increasingly clear that we are not just building a company – we’re also building a movement of like-minded individuals and businesses.
“Driving that type of social change is a full-time role and Nick is the natural leader of these conversations. As CEO I look forward to working with Neighbourly’s talented team in a day-to-day capacity, getting everything in place as we prepare to make an even bigger impact in 2016 and beyond.”
