New executive programme to give business leaders edge on quantum technologies
A minimalistic futuristic quantum computer solving financial optimization
A new professional education programme designed exclusively for senior executives will address the critical need for strategic foresight in the coming “quantum economy”.
Announced by the University of Exeter and cybersecurity firm Cystel Limited, the programme will launch in the new year and is the first of its kind to focus on managing governance and quantum risk during a company’s quantum transformation.
It is specifically tailored to empower business leaders to capitalise on the technology’s “unprecedented growth opportunities” and secure a significant competitive advantage, as highlighted in a recent World Economic Report.
The programme unites the triple-accredited University of Exeter Business School with Cystel’s cutting-edge expertise in quantum and AI governance for organisations, with the collaboration formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Professor Zena Wood from the University of Exeter said: “We are thrilled to be working with Cystel, who are driving cutting-edge solutions in cybersecurity and advancing the field’s boundaries, empowering organizations to adapt to evolving quantum threats. To be prepared for the quantum economy, and to be able to leverage its unique opportunities, companies must take a strategic approach and learn the lessons of AI adoption, where companies have found it difficult to understand early enough the impact on their businesses and the skills their workforce will need.”
Quantum technologies are considered strategically important to the UK, with the potential to substantially improve sustainability, productivity, security, and health across sectors including defence, energy, and finance.
Dr Meera Sarma, CEO of Cystel, said: “We are delighted to work with the esteemed University of Exeter and Defence Data Research Centre. The quantum era presents a dual challenge: unprecedented opportunity and existential risk. This programme is not an academic exercise; it is a vital strategic briefing that equips executives to secure their assets and harness the immense power of quantum computing before their competitors do.”
The triple accredited University of Exeter Business School will deliver the course through the Defence Data Research Centre, a transdisciplinary research centre that aims to accelerate the impact of data science and AI and a finalist in the British Data Awards 2025 for Data Team of the Year.
For more information, please contact Professor Zena Wood.
