QuantumCT - Leading the Next Quantum Revolution is a public-private partnership accelerating the adoption of quantum technologies in Connecticut and beyond. The overall global quantum technology market will reach $53.2 billion by 2028, and quantum computing will lead the market at $17.6 billion by 2028 and 41.2% CAGR.
We have a window of opportunity to lead the nation in a rapidly emerging quantum economy. The Yale and UConn partnership and Connecticut’s commitment provide a strong foundation for a quantum economy. Our assets include:
- World class innovation and research translation.
- Pre-existing innovative industrial base in Connecticut in defense, pharmaceuticals, clean energy, and finance that has a demonstrated need for quantum technologies.
- Existing and emerging partnerships between Connecticut based industry and Yale and UConn.
- An educated and dynamic workforce that is becoming quantum aware.
- Connecticut’s long history of investment in innovation, workforce development, entrepreneurial ecosystems, and funding to spur startups.
QuantumCT engages academia, industry, state and local governments, and community partners to advance the quantum economy in Connecticut. Milestones achieved by QuantumCT since May 2023 include:
- Received a grant of $1 million in May 2023 as part of The U.S. National Science Foundation's Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines) Program, a national effort to turn cutting-edge research into new technologies that create jobs and promote economic growth. Congress authorized the program in the CHIPS and Science Act.
- Another $1+ million raised from State grants, Yale University, UConn, and others, with significant State funding committed for 2025 and 2026.
- Finalizing an NSF Engines grant application to receive up to $160 million over 10 years to support the development of diverse regional coalitions of researchers, institutions, companies and civil society to conduct research and development that engages people in the process of creating solutions with economic and societal impacts.
- Has secured 501(c)3 non-profit status.
- Built a fantastic leadership team.
- Has or will be hosting numerous community educational programming, events, challenges, and workshops in Connecticut to stimulate excitement and engagement.
Chief Executive Officer – Job Description
We are seeking an exceptional CEO to lead the organization, driving the vision and development of QuantumCT. The CEO will report to the 501(c)3 Board of Directors. Initial priorities for this role include:
- Provide inspirational leadership for the Connecticut quantum technology ecosystem as the leader for use-inspired research, technology transfer, partnerships, and workforce development. This will include developing QuantumCT as a leader in innovation, entrepreneurship, education, and community, but also regular public speaking and evangelism to increase support and enthusiasm for the importance of quantum technologies and Connecticut’s emerging role as a hub.
- Lead financial strategy, budgeting, and capital planning to support the strategic plan and road map.
- Build a committed, enthusiastic, and caring team to deliver on QuantumCT’s mission.
- Secure a physical space that drives innovation and collaboration to achieve economic development objectives.
- Lead fundraising efforts to support QuantumCT strategic objectives, desired economic development impact, and day-to-day operations based on a diverse and robust mix of support from Federal, State and local public sources, corporate and university partnerships, foundations, and private philanthropy.
- Identify and engage external partners to develop sponsorships, partnerships, and collaboration with stakeholders in the advanced manufacturing, clean energy and sustainability, financial services and insurance, and life sciences industries.
- Forge additional collaborations with community programs that help connect students and underrepresented populations to quantum technologies and innovation.
- Other duties as necessary.
This role will directly contribute towards the development of Connecticut as an innovation hub for quantum technologies, which will drive breakthroughs that touch every aspect of our daily lives, paving the way for remarkable innovations with profound implications on society and create sustainable economic development solutions state-wide.
Chief Executive Officer – The Right Person
You are a curious, motivated, and flexible person with an interest in building a quantum technology innovation hub and working in a very entrepreneurial environment (re: a growing organization that is designed to support a new ecosystem). Ideal qualifications and experience will include:
- At least 10 years of relevant work experience building vibrant innovation ecosystems across private-public stakeholders.
- Fast-paced business experience, preferably in a business development capacity.
- History of building long-term strategic plans and corresponding budgets.
- Success in fundraising and/or convincing external stakeholders to financially support a mission-based organization.
- Entrepreneurial approach, eager to build, create value, and solve problems.
- Self-starter with a growth mindset who is comfortable with a minimal amount of direction.
- Expertise to interact successfully with a diverse array of technical, scientific, legal, political, and public entities.
- The ability to communicate effectively in a full range of forums such as meetings, presentations, and written expression. Demonstrates remarkable persuasion skills and excellent ability to build trust.
- A demonstrated systems thinker, who can develop and implement plans to efficiently build an organization through project conception, planning, budgeting, funding, change management, and implementation cycles.
- Technical or higher degrees are welcome but not required. Show us what you’ve done and what you can do beyond what you’ve learned in school.
In addition, four attributes + skills that are very useful:
- Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
- Experience managing talented people and complex systems.
- Ability to receive, prioritize and act on information with minimal oversight.
- Commitment to customer service across the stakeholders we serve.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: QuantumCT is an equal opportunity employer and we do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class. We actively encourage candidates from broad, diverse backgrounds to apply.
