The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), the organisation overseeing Bluetooth® technology, announced the appointment of Neville Meijers as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective May 29, 2024. With a distinguished career marked by transformative leadership and innovation, Meijers is poised to steer Bluetooth SIG through its next chapter of growth.
Meijers brings a wealth of experience from senior executive roles at major multinational corporations and high-growth startups. At Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., he led the development of private LTE/5G networks for the Industrial Internet of Things. As CEO for Naspers Limited’s operations in China, he was instrumental in turning the internet and entertainment group into a global, multibillion-dollar enterprise. Most recently, as Chief Commercial Officer at JMA Wireless, he oversaw private wireless, distributed antenna systems, business development, and marketing. His leadership roles also include serving as a board member of the Digital Intermediate Frequency Interoperability Consortium (DIFI), Chair of the Board for the OnGo Alliance, and founder and board director of the MulteFire Alliance.
Bluetooth SIG has experienced remarkable growth since its inception 25 years ago, with membership expanding to over 40,000 companies globally. The technology has evolved significantly, becoming the leading wireless standard with applications in the consumer, commercial, and industrial sectors. Analysts project that more than five billion products shipping in 2024 will include Bluetooth technology.
“Bluetooth technology has revolutionised how we connect and communicate. It is the most pervasive wireless technology globally, and I’m honoured to lead the Bluetooth SIG into its next phase of growth and innovation,” said Meijers. “Having spent much of my career in wireless technologies, Bluetooth is ingrained in my DNA. I’m excited to work with the talented team and our pioneering member community to drive the vision of a connected world, free from wires.”
Meijers succeeds Mark Powell, who led the Bluetooth SIG for 12 years. Powell’s tenure saw significant organisational development and operational excellence, enabling mass adoption of Bluetooth technology in consumer applications and its expansion into commercial and industrial markets.
“Mark has left an indelible mark on the organization and the wireless industry,” said Robert Hughes, Chair of the Bluetooth SIG Board of Directors. “We are delighted to welcome Neville as our new CEO. His ability to inspire high-performing teams and his visionary, strategic thinking make him the ideal leader for the Bluetooth SIG’s continued pursuit of excellence and success.”
About Bluetooth SIG:
Bluetooth SIG is dedicated to advancing Bluetooth technology, ensuring its widespread adoption and implementation across various applications. The organisation collaborates with its member companies to drive innovation and maintain Bluetooth’s status as the leading wireless standard globally.
