IonQ has appointed Gary Merrill, formerly CFO of Commvault Systems, Inc., as its new Chief Financial Officer, bringing with him specific cybersecurity expertise as the quantum firm scales. Thomas A. Austin, previously Chief Accounting Officer at Juniper Networks, an HPE company, will serve as IonQ’s newly created Chief Accounting Officer, signaling a more formalized accounting structure.
These appointments coincide with the immediate departure of Inder M. Singh, following a two-year period where IonQ evolved. Merrill stated he is “excited to join at such a pivotal moment” for the company, emphasizing the importance of disciplined financial management alongside ambitious growth.
Gary Merrill Appointed CFO, Bringing Cybersecurity Expertise
Gary Merrill’s appointment as Chief Financial Officer brings a specific focus on cybersecurity to the leadership of the quantum computing firm, a critical consideration as the company scales its operations. Merrill joins from Commvault Systems, Inc., where he most recently served as Chief Financial Officer, returning to the role in April 2026 after leading the company’s global sales and partner organizations as Chief Commercial Officer.
His prior experience at Commvault included transforming the finance organization and accelerating a transition to a subscription and SaaS business model. He plans to apply these skills as it pursues profitability.
Niccolo de Masi, Chairman and CEO of IonQ, highlighted the extensive public company experience both Merrill and Austin contribute, stating, “Gary and Tom bring extensive public company experience across finance and accounting that will be increasingly important as IonQ continues to scale and hone its long-term path to profitability.” This emphasis on financial rigor suggests a shift in internal priorities as the company moves beyond its initial phase.
De Masi acknowledged Singh’s contributions, noting, “In just the last two years, we have evolved from a quantum computing company into the world’s leading full-stack quantum platform and foundry company.” Merrill’s career began as a Certified Public Accountant in the audit practice of Arthur Andersen, and he holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Elizabethtown College.
In just the last two years, we have evolved from a quantum computing company pioneer into the world’s leading full-stack quantum platform and foundry company.
Niccolo de Masi, Chairman and CEO of IonQ
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