Attraqt hires Luke McKeever as new chief executive

Attraqt has hired Luke McKeever as its new chief executive, ending a search for a new boss that started in mid-January.

The online retail merchandising company said McKeever would join on 21 May from Neighbourly.com, an online platform that connects community groups with potential funders and volunteers. He joined Neighbourly in 2014 and became chief executive in September 2015.

McKeever will take over from Nick Habgood, who became Attraqt's executive chairman when Andre Brown left on 15 January after running the company AIM-listed company for 15 years. In October Attraqt said annual revenue would be lower than expected because of inaccurate forecasts for the timing of contracts.

Before joining Neighbourly, McKeever ran OB10, a trading network acquired by Tungsten in 2013, and Portrait Software. He has also worked at software companies Alterian and Experian.

Habgood said: "With Luke's knowledge of the sector, transaction experience, relationships with retailers and proven expertise in growing software businesses, we are confident that he will drive forward the underlying operational effectiveness and performance of the business."

Attraqt shares rose 9% to 34p at 07:50 BST.