Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC), a leading quantum computing business, announced that CEO Dr. Ilana Wisby is stepping down. Wisby played a key role in spinning the business out from Oxford University and raising capital to make quantum computing available as a service globally. Gerald Mullaly, who has led OQC’s commercial growth and has experience in technology solutions at Accenture and PwC, will serve as interim CEO. Mullaly will continue to lead OQC’s Series B investment raise and the search for a new CEO.
Leadership Transition at Oxford Quantum Circuits
Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC), a prominent player in the quantum computing industry, has recently announced a change in its executive leadership. Dr. Ilana Wisby, who has served as the Chief Executive Officer, is stepping down from her role.
Dr. Wisby has played a significant role in the company’s growth since its inception as a spin-off from Oxford University. Over the past six years, she has been instrumental in securing seed, Series A, and Series B capital from several venture capital firms. Her leadership has helped OQC become one of the first companies to offer quantum computing as a service in data centers globally.
Reflecting on her tenure, Dr. Wisby expressed her pride in the team’s accomplishments and her excitement for the company’s future. She stated, “It’s been a profound honour to lead OQC from its inception as an Oxford University spin-out, building a phenomenal team and supported by remarkable venture investors. As we progress our Series B fundraise, it is the right moment for me to step down and embark on a new journey.”
Interim Leadership and Future Plans
In the interim, Gerald Mullaly will assume the role of CEO while the Board conducts a search for a permanent replacement. Mullaly will continue to lead OQC’s Series B investment raise and has previously led the company’s commercial growth through strategic partnerships with large private and public sector organisations.
Mullaly brings a wealth of experience to the role, having spent two decades delivering technology solutions for customers across various sectors, including life sciences, financial services, energy, and defence. He has held leadership positions at leading companies such as Accenture and PwC and served as a Director at the UK Prime Minister’s Office and Cabinet Office.
Board’s Acknowledgement and Confidence in New Leadership
Peter George, the chair of the board, expressed gratitude for Dr. Wisby’s contributions and wished her success in her future endeavours. He also welcomed Mullaly to the leadership team and expressed confidence in his ability to guide the company in its next phase.
George stated, “The board welcomes Gerald to the leadership team and looks forward to working closely with him as OQC strengthens and expands their mission and purpose. Gerald is an exceptional leader who is aligned with OQC’s mission-driven culture, making him well positioned to take on this role.”
Gerald Mullaly’s Vision for OQC
Upon his appointment, Mullaly expressed his excitement and honour to take on the role of CEO on an interim basis. He acknowledged the company’s pioneering work in quantum computing and expressed his eagerness to work with the team, investors, and partners to accelerate the company’s technological performance and deepen its commercial engagement with customers.
In his words, “OQC is pushing the frontier of what is possible with quantum, and I look forward to working closely with our team, investors and partners to accelerate the company’s technological performance and deepen our commercial engagement with customers.”
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