Photonic Strengthens Executive Team with New COO and Strategic Advisor

Fresh off its UK expansion announcement, Vancouver-based Photonic has appointed former SAP Canada managing director Kirsten Sutton as Chief Operating Officer and named cybersecurity expert Prof. Alex van Someren as a Strategic Advisor.

The two high-profile additions are set to accelerate Photonic’s journey toward commercially viable quantum computing.

Sutton brings over 30 years of experience in software development, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity, with executive roles at SAP and Vancity. A recognized leader in Canada’s tech sector, she has served on the boards of the Quantum Algorithms Institute, Science World, and the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.

“Photonic is driving a major shift in computing,” said Sutton. “I’m honoured to join at such a pivotal moment and help build the future of quantum.”

Prof. van Someren is a veteran tech entrepreneur and venture capitalist with deep expertise in national security. He co-founded two successful tech firms, led early-stage investing at Amadeus Capital Partners, and recently served as the UK’s Chief Scientific Adviser for National Security, where he also advised the NATO Innovation Fund.

“Photonic’s vision for quantum computing and networking will address some of the most meaningful and complex challenges both industry and government are facing,” said van Someren. “I’m excited to help bring that future closer.”

“These are significant additions to our team,” said Dr. Paul Terry, CEO of Photonic. “Kirsten brings operational excellence and a people-first mindset, while Alex offers invaluable strategic insight from the intersection of technology, security, and policy. Their leadership will be pivotal as we execute on our bold vision.”

Photonic is developing scalable quantum computers and networks to solve global challenges across materials science, drug discovery, climate change, and cybersecurity. Its Entanglement First™ architecture uses optically linked silicon spin qubits to enable powerful computation, error correction, and integration with existing data center and telecom infrastructure.

Headquartered in Vancouver, Photonic has operations in the United States and United Kingdom, with over 150 employees and backing from global investors and partners.