Petra Andrén has been appointed the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of Quantum Australia, the national centre for quantum industry growth.
Australia consistently ranks among the world’s top five nations for high-impact quantum research and quantum computing patents, with one of the largest quantum workforces globally. As CEO, Petra will play a crucial role in translating this momentum into tangible industry growth and global influence.
The former CEO of Cicada, Australia’s premier deep tech incubator, Petra brings extensive experience in scaling high-growth technology ventures and accelerating innovation ecosystems, with particular expertise in deep tech commercialisation.
At this pivotal moment in the global quantum landscape, countries are racing to establish leadership in the technology. In her new role at Quantum Australia, Petra will lead national efforts to strengthen Australia’s position as a global quantum leader.
“The quantum race is well and truly underway, and Australia has a unique window of opportunity to stake its claim as a global leader,” said Petra.
“With world-class research and a rapidly growing industry, we must act decisively to translate our quantum expertise into real-world impact. I’m excited to work with our partners to build a thriving quantum ecosystem that delivers economic and societal benefits for all Australians.”
Petra has been widely recognised for her leadership in innovation ecosystem building and early-stage VC tech investment.
During her time as CEO of Cicada Innovations, her visionary leadership earned global acclaim in 2018 when Cicada was recognised as the “Best Incubator in the World” by inBIA, thanks to innovative and highly successful models for research commercialisation and seed investment in emerging tech sectors via the micro VC fund Bizcapital.
On 1 May, 2025, Petra will step into the role of CEO at Quantum Australia.
“We are delighted to welcome Petra Andrén as the inaugural CEO of Quantum Australia,” said Peter Rossdeutscher AM, Chair of the Board at Quantum Australia. “Petra’s deep commercial expertise and commitment to innovation will play a pivotal role in accelerating the growth of Australia’s quantum industry.”
“Her leadership will help us unlock new opportunities and strengthen Australia’s position on the global quantum stage.”
Quantum Australia was established with an $18.4 million federal government grant under the Australian Centre for Quantum Growth (ACQG) program.
Uniting Australia’s top research institutions, industry leaders and quantum-focused enterprises, Quantum Australia’s mission is to accelerate the development and adoption of quantum technology.