Insider Brief
- Photonic Inc., a leader in fault-tolerant quantum computing, has appointed Kirsten Sutton as Chief Operating Officer and Prof. Alex van Someren as Strategic Advisor to support its commercial acceleration.
- Sutton brings three decades of executive experience in tech and cybersecurity, including leadership roles at SAP and Vancity, and is a well-known advocate for inclusive innovation in Canada.
- Van Someren, a former UK Chief Scientific Adviser for National Security and deep tech VC, joins to guide Photonic’s strategic development in quantum computing and networking for government and industry applications.
PRESS RELEASE – Photonic Inc., a leader in distributed, fault-tolerant quantum computing, today announced two key executive team additions: Kirsten Sutton has been named Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Prof. Alex van Someren has been appointed as a Strategic Advisor. These appointments will expedite the company’s growth as it accelerates the timeline to commercially useful quantum applications.
Sutton brings with her 30 years of experience managing intricate technological processes, as well as a wealth of expertise in software development, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity. A respected leader in Canada’s technology sector, she previously held top executive positions at organizations such as SAP and Vancity. With leadership contributions to organizations like the Quantum Algorithms Institute, Science World, and the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, she is also a devoted supporter of inclusive innovation.
“Photonic is driving a major shift in computing – and it is incredibly exciting,” said Sutton. “I’m honoured to step into this role at such a pivotal moment and to be part of a team that’s not just imagining the future of quantum but actively building it.”
With decades of experience in national security, deep tech venture capital, and cybersecurity, Prof. van Someren has joined Photonic as a Strategic Advisor. An experienced entrepreneur, he co-founded two technology firms that went public and had successful exits. Later, he was the Managing Partner for Early Stage funds at UK venture capital firm Amadeus Capital Partners. Most recently, he was the UK’s Chief Scientific Adviser for National Security, where he also advised the NATO Innovation Fund.
Van Someren added, “Photonic’s vision for quantum computing and networking will address some of the most meaningful and complex challenges both industry and government are facing. I’m excited to help it achieve its goals to bring about a quantum-enabled future.”
“These are significant additions to our team,” stated Dr. Paul Terry, CEO, Photonic. “Kirsten offers a unique blend of people-oriented leadership and operational knowledge, while Alex provides a strategic perspective molded by extensive experience in multiple relevant fields. Both are pivotal to our growth and realization of our bold vision.”
