IQM Quantum Computers has consolidated its leadership, appointing Jan Goetz as sole CEO effective January 1st, following a board resolution. This shift from a co-CEO structure signals a new phase of growth for the Finnish firm, a global leader in superconducting quantum computers founded in 2018. Notably, IQM surpassed competitors in the past year, selling and shipping more on-premises quantum computers than any other company, alongside completing the largest Series B funding round in quantum computing outside of the US. “Moving to a single-CEO structure reflects the maturity of the organisation and positions IQM to deliver the next phase of sustainable global expansion and long-term growth,” said Dr. Sierk Poetting, Chairman of IQM’s Board of Directors, as the company focuses on scaling quantum technology for commercial applications.
Jan Goetz Appointed Sole CEO of IQM Quantum Computers
This structural shift accompanies the appointment of Søren Hein as Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO, signalling a strategic move to capitalize on recent successes and accelerate growth. The transition also sees Mikko Välimäki step down from his commercial role, transitioning to an advisory position until March 31, 2026, ensuring stability during the leadership change. Founded in 2018, IQM has rapidly expanded, now boasting a global presence with over 300 employees across eleven countries, including Finland, Germany and the United States.
Goetz, who spun IQM out of Aalto University and VTT Technical Research Center of Finland, has secured over $600 million in capital for the company since its inception. He stated: “IQM is well positioned to meet the evolving needs of AI-driven organisations and high-performance computing centres.” Hein added: “IQM has built an incredible team and culture of innovation.”
Søren Hein Named COO and Deputy CEO
Hein brings over three decades of experience as a technology executive and investor to the Finnish firm, a key player in the rapidly evolving field of superconducting quantum computing. Prior to joining IQM, Hein led deeptech investments at MIG Capital, the firm which participated in IQM’s seed funding round in 2019, demonstrating existing familiarity with the company’s trajectory. Hein’s previous roles also include co-founding and leading a startup focused on electric motors, and serving as Chief Technology Officer for the Wireless Systems business unit at Infineon, showcasing a diverse technical background. He anticipates strengthening operations and accelerating the adoption of quantum technology to support long-term commercial success.
“I am delighted to welcome Søren to his new role. We will continue to expand and strengthen our leadership team to prepare for the next phase of strong growth, in line with our technology roadmap and long-term vision.”
Goetz
IQM’s Growth: From 2018 Founding to Market Leadership
The company has established a global footprint, now operating in locations spanning France, Germany, Japan, and the United States, alongside its Finnish headquarters and a team exceeding 300 employees. This expansion has been fuelled by significant investment, with IQM raising over $600 million of capital since its inception. A key strategic shift, effective January 1st, sees co-founder Dr. Jan Goetz assume the role of sole CEO, signalling a move toward greater organizational maturity. “Our dual CEO approach has served IQM well over the past two years, and I want to thank Mikko Välimäki for his significant contributions,” added Poetting.
IQM’s focus remains on scaling quantum computers for both industrial and commercial applications, aiming to meet the demands of AI-driven organizations and high-performance computing centers.
